Chris Rigg opens up on emotional derby, Granit Xhaka’s influence and Brian Brobbey’s reaction after Sunderland win
Chris Rigg admitted the Tyne-Wear derby win over Newcastle United “means the world” after an emotional afternoon at St James’ Park - and opened up on family loyalties, his development and the influence of Granit Xhaka.
The 18-year-old, who became the youngest Sunderland starter in a Premier League-era derby, played a key role as the Black Cats came from behind to secure a famous 2-1 victory.
For Rigg, the occasion carried added significance given his mixed family background, with his father a Newcastle supporter who opted not to attend the game. “He just watched it at home, there’s nothing else to say, really,” Rigg said. “Yes, exactly. But he’ll be happy for his son, like anyone would.”
The midfielder also reflected on the magnitude of the fixture from a personal perspective, admitting it had been on his mind throughout the week. “I think that was the most important thing. I was thinking about it all week, all the different scenarios in my head, as you would because I’m human. That was the best one today. Yes, it means the world to me. I got a bit emotional after the game, and I got a bit emotional before the game.”
Rigg described the experience of walking out at St James’ Park as “surreal” and something he had dreamed of growing up. “Walking onto the pitch, it was still quite surreal, obviously. Being a local lad and walking out at St James’ Park, it’s still a big achievement for me personally, and I think it is for most of the lads because those are the games you dream of playing when you’re a kid.
“That’s what Granit said before the game, you dream to play in these games,” Rigg added. “Obviously, when we went 1-0 down, I thought we kept our heads really well because it could have gone one, two, three. But it didn’t, and then we scored two, so I think that’s just how it went.”
Despite Sunderland missing several key players, Rigg insisted the victory was built on character rather than tactics. “Like I said before, it’s not a tactical problem, I think that was just heart that was just us playing for the badge, playing for the city. We knew we had to go out there and give the fans something. I think that was just heart, and we had more heart than them today.”
Rigg also paid tribute to match-winner Brian Brobbey, highlighting both his impact and personality within the squad. “He scored, picked the Man of the Match trophy up and then went in the shower. If he’s any more laid back, he’ll fall over. He’s so crucial for us, as you saw today, another big goal – and he’s come up with a few of those moments, so thanks to him today. He’s exactly the same as he is on the pitch. He’s just so chilled-out, and he’s such a nice guy, you can speak to him about anything. And he’s an immense footballer as well.”
The teenager also spoke about his own development this season, admitting time out of the team had helped him improve. “One hundred per cent. I’ve had a lot more time to work on my game, especially this season, because I haven’t been in the team, so I’ve had a lot of opportunities to work on myself and get better, and I think I’ve done that. I just need to keep the consistency now.”
Rigg was full of praise for Xhaka’s influence, describing the midfielder as a key figure in his progression. “He’s the best. He’s one of the best players in the world to come in and help me because he’s done it everywhere, and he’s so good in the way he talks, and he’s so demanding, and that’s what I needed.”
There were emotional scenes after the final whistle, with Rigg revealing a moment shared with Luke O’Nien in the dressing room. “No, I wasn’t in tears, I just got a bit emotional in the changing room. Me and Luke had a bit of a moment because we’ve played a lot of seasons here, and obviously Luke’s been here for how many years. He just gave me a hug and said, ‘Wow!’.”
The reaction from Sunderland’s supporters also left a lasting impression. “That’s the main thing, that’s why I’m playing as well as I am, because they give me trust. It means the world to me.” And when asked if he can now officially be called a Mackem, Rigg’s answer was emphatic. “Of course you can” But for Rigg, it was a day that will stay with him. “It means the world to me, and I couldn’t do it without the people behind me as well, so thanks to them.”
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