He may be only 17, but Sunderland's Chris Rigg has already clocked up more than 50 senior appearances for the Black Cats - and has added the North East Sportwriters' Young Player of the Year award to his growing list of accolades.

The midfield star admits he has had little time to reflect on a whirlwind two years since making his debut for the club as a 15-year-old, but was honoured to receive the award last weekend, alongside team-mate Jobe Bellingham.

Rigg became Sunderland's youngest-ever outfield player at 15 when he made his debut in January 2023, while last season he made history as the Carabao Cup’s youngest-ever goalscorer with a strike against Crewe Alexandra before netting his first Championship goal at 16 in a commanding 5-0 win over Southampton at the Stadium of Light.

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Reflecting on his latest accolade he said: “It’s always great to have your achievements recognised, and winning such a prestigious award is a proud moment. It’s even more special to share it with a team-mate.

“The club has a strong history of developing young players and giving them a platform to succeed. Players like Dan Neil and Anthony Patterson have come through, and now it’s our turn. It speaks volumes about the club’s vision and ambition. It’s about setting new targets and improving.

“There’s little time to reflect with another game always on the horizon. It’s about setting new targets and improving. The lads in the dressing room have played a huge part in my journey. Players like Dan [Neil] and Luke O’Nien, along with the staff, have been instrumental, and I’m grateful for everything they’ve done.

“Talent is important, but consistency and the drive to keep getting better are what really matter. That’s something I pride myself on and will continue to focus on.”

Rigg has enjoyed playing alongside fellow award winner Bellingham and added: “Being part of the senior set-up for the last couple of years has been an incredible experience. Jobe’s progress has been unreal – he’s improved so much, and sometimes I’m starstruck by what he does every day. If he keeps maximising his potential, there’s no doubt he can reach the very top.”