Sunderland handed huge selection boost ahead of Millwall clash after 'discussions' held
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Sunderland have been handed a big boost ahead of their clash with Millwall on the other side of the international break. Championship clubs are now on break for the next couple of weeks, and the Lions will be pleased with how things have gone so far.
Neil Harris’ men drew with Stoke City last time out, and they are now seven unbeaten and within two points of the top six. Millwall were involved in a relegation battle before ultimately pulling away last season, and if they can put together a top half finish - or even better to compete for the playoffs - this season, it would represent a hugely impressive turnaround.
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Hide AdThere is plenty of time for the Championship table to change for the better or worse, though, and the Lions are going to have to continue to prove themselves against the division’s best teams, just like they did against Leeds United recently. After the break, they take on league leaders Sunderland, who have won nine and lost just four of their first 15 games, racking up 31 points.
Key to that start has been teenage sensation Chris Rigg, who is just 17 years of age. The midfielder has played in 13 of Sunderland’s 15 Championship fixtures so far, scoring three times, and there have been concerns about the demands being placed on the young star.
With that in mind, according to the Sunderland Echo, the Black Cats were in discussions with the FA over getting Rigg some time off over the international break. The young midfielder was selected to represent England at under-18s level, having already racked up seven caps at that level.
But Sunderland have managed to reach an agreement with the FA to ensure Rigg does not play for his country during this international break. He will instead rest due to the amount of football he has already played this term, meaning he will be fresh and ready to go by the time the Black Cats face Millwall at The Den on November 23.
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