Chris Rigg has delivered a message to Sunderland fans ahead of next weekend’s Tyne-Wear derby with Newcastle United

Chris Rigg believes Sunderland have the perfect opportunity to respond to defeat against Brighton when they face Newcastle United next weekend.

The Black Cats slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, but attention is already turning to the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday in what promises to be one of the biggest games of the season.

Rigg admitted the squad were frustrated after the loss but says the upcoming derby provides the ideal chance to bounce back and give supporters something to celebrate. “Yeah, perfect opportunity for us lads to bounce back and give the fans some joy, so we'll try our best to do that,” Rigg said.

The 18-year-old also highlighted the role Sunderland supporters continue to play in driving the team forward during difficult moments. “Yeah, I think the fans have pushed us, certainly while I've been here. They've been a key part of my career and a key part of why I chose to continue my career here, so we need them more than ever now.”

The derby will also carry a personal edge for Rigg. The midfielder has Newcastle United roots despite spending his entire professional career with Sunderland, and he was heavily linked with a move to Tyneside earlier in his development. Instead, Rigg opted to remain at the Stadium of Light and has since emerged as one of the most exciting young players in the Premier League under Régis Le Bris.

Reflecting on the Brighton defeat, Rigg felt the contest was an entertaining one but admitted Sunderland were ultimately left frustrated by the outcome. “I thought it was a good game of football. I think it was end-to-end. I thought that we had spells in the first half, which we probably should have took one away. Early in the second half, obviously scored and got disallowed; things happen. Their goal, I think we just need to tighten up a little bit. Overall frustration, but we'll bounce back soon.”

Rigg was handed a place in the starting XI against Brighton and believes the performance showed he can compete consistently at Premier League level. “Yeah, I think the overall team performance before mine wasn't too bad. I think I've tried to establish myself at this level and today showed that I can play at this level, just need the consistency now.”

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The teenager also acknowledged Sunderland are still searching for the form that made them so difficult to beat earlier in the season. “Yeah, that's all that's about, form. Obviously, come back off a defeat at Port Vale, which was horrible for all of us. It hurt deep down, so we try to bounce back today. Unfortunately, it didn't work, but big game next week, so hopefully we can do that.”

With the derby now looming large on the horizon, Sunderland will hope the clash with Newcastle offers the perfect stage to reignite their season and deliver a performance capable of lifting both the squad and the supporters.

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