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“17-Year-Old Star’s Emotional Message to Sheffield United Sends Shockwaves Before Final
Sunderland Youngster Sends Respectful Message to Chris Wilder and Sheffield United Ahead of Wembley Final
Sunderland’s promising young talent Chris Rigg has shared a respectful message for Chris Wilder and Sheffield United ahead of their crucial Championship play-off final clash at Wembley next weekend.
Following Sunderland’s dramatic 3-2 aggregate win over Coventry City and Sheffield United’s dominant 6-0 triumph over Bristol City, the two sides are set to face off in London with promotion to the Premier League on the line.
Speaking to Sunderland’s club media, 17-year-old Rigg acknowledged the strength of their upcoming opponents: “Sheffield United are a quality side who were in the Premier League just last season. Now they’re one step away from going back up.
We’ve already had two competitive matches with them this season, and this will be another great test. Our preparations have already begun, and we’re excited. These are the moments you play for.”
Rigg also took a moment to express gratitude to the Sunderland supporters for their backing throughout the campaign and play-off run: “We’ve felt their support from the moment we left the Academy of Light.
What we achieved at Coventry came with this incredible sense of momentum and unity. We made the fans proud.
“I was buzzing all day on Tuesday waiting for the game. The late kick-off just built the excitement even more, and the atmosphere during the warm-up was electric.
Now we’re heading to Wembley. At 17, playing in front of 90,000 people at such a historic venue—it’s a dream come true.”
Le Bris Reflects on Journey and Prepares for Final Test
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris praised his team’s season as a resounding success, regardless of the outcome at Wembley, while emphasizing the need for full focus ahead of their final hurdle.
Recognizing the challenge posed by a strong Sheffield United side—who racked up 92 points in the regular season despite a two-point deduction—Le Bris remained optimistic yet grounded.
“This season has been incredible,” said Le Bris. “Win or lose at Wembley, we must recognize everything we’ve achieved.
That said, our attention now turns fully to the final. It’s going to be another tough game, but we’ll be ready.
“After the intensity of our semi-final against Coventry, the players and staff were given a day to recover.
Training will resume Thursday as we start preparing in earnest for Wembley. One game remains, and we’re fully focused on it.”
