‘I couldn’t believe it’ – Chris Mepham delivers brilliant Chris Rigg verdict after Middlesbrough winner

Chris Mepham was surprised to learn that Chris Rigg was only 17 years old.

   The Welsh centre-back signed for Sunderland on a season-long loan on deadline day from Bournemouth and made his Championship debut against Middlesbrough at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

   The Wear-Tees clash was decided by a moment of Rigg magic, with the youngster scoring a stunning back-heel in the first half to earn Régis Le Bri’s side all three points and extend their record to five wins from six in the league.  so far this season.

   “I have to admit I probably didn’t realize how young Chris was until about a week in. I couldn’t believe it,” Mepham said after the Middlesbrough game.

   “I think I was asked recently in a Q&A who inspired me the most, and he’s the first person that came to my mind, he’s acting the same way. He’s been acting like he’s been around for years. On the pitch, he looks  so cool, calm and collected and he’s also a great, great guy.

   “It is important that he remains grounded and humble.    I have no doubt he will have an amazing career.    When you see him day in and day out, you get an idea of what kind of player he is and you expect to see him on Saturday.

   “He’s taken the game by the scruff of the neck. I haven’t been here long but he’s definitely a top player there. He carries himself like that, he’s loud on the pitch. Normally a 17-year-old can be a bit more inclined to keep to himself or be a bit more reserved  .”

   Rigg signed his first professional contract with the Academy of Light last summer amid interest from Europe’s top clubs and Premier League sides.    However, Mepham was impressed with the attacking midfielder’s leadership qualities at such a young age.

   “It’s usually only at 20, 21, 22 that you feel you can have a bit more authority and dictate to other players,” Mepham added.    “But he’s 17 and has the respect of everyone at the club, rightfully so. It gives him the freedom to lead. The combination of that and his quality on the ball is a great combination.

   “At 26, I’ve seen a lot of players with great potential who have all the skills in the world but probably struggle a bit with the other side of the game. It’s important to stay grounded and keep working hard and not get complacent and stop doing things,  which got you into the first team.

   “It’s the little things like being on time and being careless with everyday things.    I can help with things like that and the club has made it clear that it is important for me to come and use my skills and experience.”

   Sunderland next play Watford in the Championship next Saturday at Vicarage Road, with the Black Cats hoping to make it six wins in seven games.