Reporter Alan Nixon claims that Nottingham Forest is considering both Tommy Watson and Chris Rigg, both of whom graduated from Sunderland’s academy.
Many of Sunderland’s academy graduates have gone on to secure regular senior positions on Wearside, demonstrating the team’s reputation for producing talented young players.
Over the past few years, players like Dan Neil and Anthony Patterson have established themselves as constants.
But few of the nation’s best players have been able to match Chris Rigg, a teenage midfielder, this season. The 17-year-old made his debut for the team the previous season and has been a consistent starter under Regis Le Bris, contributing three goals in 13 Championship contests.
Tommy Watson, a winger for Sunderland, made his first league start against Preston North End earlier this week, so he’s not the only promising young player.
Reporter Alan Nixon has now stated on his Patreon that Nottingham Forest, a Premier League team, is considering the Black Cats’ chances.
Although they joined the Rigg chase late, Nixon notes that Watson had been a player at the City Ground who has been admired for “a couple of seasons.” Additionally, Brighton and Crystal Palace are interested in the latter.
In fact, a few bids for Watson were reportedly turned down by the Seagulls in the summer.
There are big futures ahead.
It’s obvious that Rigg and Watson have bright careers ahead of them, probably one in which they outperform Sunderland in the years to come.
At just 17, midfielder Rigg is already making waves at the senior level and is a vital member of this Regis Le Bris team. As a result, he has been linked to elite European teams, therefore Nottingham Forest may have trouble acquiring someone of his calibre.
Although Watson isn’t quite there yet, his outstanding U21 performances have earned him well-earned opportunities to play in the starting lineup.
His ability to cut in from the left onto his better right foot, frequently launching a shot or setting up one of his attacking teammates, has made him a potential Jack Clarke.
Defying bids
Given the level of these Sunderland talent, interest will inevitably be generated, and bids are probably going to follow.
But in Rigg’s situation in particular, the team needs to do everything in their power to withstand alluring offers and hold onto him until at least next summer.
Despite his youth, he will be crucial to Regis Le Bris’ team’s push for promotion to the Premier League, and if they make a splash during the January transfer window, he might be difficult to replace.
Refusing interest now could result in a big transfer windfall later on because Rigg’s value will only increase.
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