Arriving on loan from Bournemouth

 

It was reported in February that the Black Cats set an asking price of £25 million amid interest from the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.

The midfielder has enjoyed a strong campaign under Régis Le Bris, making 31 appearances in the Championship as the club looks to fight for promotion to the Premier League.

The 17-year-old has contributed four goals and one assist, with his importance to the team growing with each impressive performance.

Waghorn has told Rigg to not forget his roots wherever he ends up in his career amid links to top Premier League sides.

The former Sunderland forward expects the teenager to have a successful career, but that he should always keep giving 100 per cent while he’s at the Stadium of Light.

“Just never forget where you were made and how you were made,” said Waghorn, via the Sunderland Echo.

“Whatever happens, always just give 100 per cent for the club. That’s all the fans want. He’s a legend to the fans already for what he’s done.

“Just the way he goes around the pitch and how he conducts himself. That’ll never change, and fans will never want to see that change.

“Whatever he goes on to do, he’s going to go on to have a successful career, no doubt. But just that passion and raw energy and excitement and enjoyment for the game, just don’t ever lose that because there’ll be moments where he has good spells or he’ll have bad spells.

“That’s football; that’s life. Whoever’s going to be in the team or any footballer, just enjoy those moments of pure happiness.”

Sunderland are in the mix for a top two spot this season, and will feel secure of at least earning a play-off position given their large gap to fifth and sixth place heading into the final months of the campaign.