Teen star Rigg sticks with Cats

SUNDERLAND youngster Chris Rigg has signed a new long-term contract with the Black Cats and says he only ever had one ambition - to put pen to paper on fresh terms.

- By MATTY HEWITT Football writer [e-mail]

The 18-year-old has signed a new deal to extend his stay at the Stadium of Light until the summer of 2030, having broken into the first team as a 15-year-old.

The Black Cats midfielder caught the eye of Newcastle United coming through the ranks as a youngster, with Manchester United and Everton also huge admirers. The latter of the trio was linked with a swoop for the England youth international this summer, but his new deal puts an end to any speculation.

The Academy of Light graduate is the club's youngest outfield debutant and goalscorer in Sunderland's history, and he has already made 74 senior appearances in red and white.