Bellingham issues three-word response to Chris Rigg’s emotional Sunderland message
Jobe Bellingham has responded to Chris Rigg’s emotional message after Sunderland won the Championship playoff final at Wembley on Saturday, 24 May.
The Mackems went 1-0 behind to Sheffield United as Tyrese Campbell scored for the Blades before Harrison Burrows saw his effort disallowed for an offside call against Vini Souza.
But Regis Le Bris’ men showed their character in the second half as Eliezer Mayenda found the equaliser, before Brighton-bound Tommy Watson scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner to seal a 2-1 victory.
Sunderland have been left delighted by the fact that they will be playing in the Premier League next term for the first time since being relegated from the top-flight in 2017.
Bellingham responds as Rigg celebrates Sunderland promotion
Rigg has enjoyed a stellar Championship campaign for the Stadium of Light outfit, making 42 appearances as a 17-year-old.
The midfielder celebrated the Black Cats’ promotion as he wrote on Instagram (25 May): “Best day of my life!”
Bellingham responded to the emotional message as he commented: “What a boy,” while Romaine Mundle wrote: “Love you Riggy.”
Premier League promotion should help Sunderland keep Rigg
For now, the North East giants will be overjoyed by the fact that they have finally sealed promotion back to the Premier League after enduring four seasons in League One since their last top-flight stint.
But Le Bris’ men will know that there is plenty of work to do in the summer transfer window as they look to equip themselves for life in the top tier.
Meanwhile, Rigg has attracted suitors in the transfer market thanks to the key role he has played in Sunderland’s promotion at just 17.
| Chris Rigg stats | Championship 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 45 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 1 |
The teenager has shown his ability in the second tier, notching four goals and one assist this term and he was worthy of his starting 11 spot at Wembley on Saturday, 24 May.
But his exploits in the North East have not gone unnoticed, as Rigg has attracted interest from Everton, who have performed well in the Premier League since David Moyes returned to the dugout at Goodison Park.
However, now that Sunderland will be competing in the top-flight next term, they have bolstered their chances of retaining the talented teenager.
Meanwhile, Bundesliga expert Kevin Hatchard informed Mackem News that Bellingham could be open to joining Borussia Dortmund.