Riggott immediately became popular among the fans, scoring twice on his second appearance in the Tees-Wear derby against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, which Middlesbrough won 3–1.

[4] The next season, new manager Southgate strengthened his defence by signing England and Germany internationals Jonathan Woodgate and Robert Huth, from Real Madrid and Chelsea respectively.

This cast into doubt Riggot's place in the starting line up, and a series of injuries and the form of Middlesbrough's new defensive partnership of Woodgate and player of the year Emanuel Pogatetz limited his appearances that season.

Riggott joined Stoke City on loan on 29 February 2008, until the end of the season, in the hope of assisting the Potters in their promotion race, which he succeeded in doing.

"[2] Riggott spent time on trial at his former club Derby County but eventually joined Cardiff City on 17 September following a rigorous fitness test.

[10] As was anticipated for much of pre-season, particularly after undergoing a back operation at Derby County's expense, Riggott signed a one-year contract with the club on 10 August 2011.

[11] However, he fell victim to his recurring injuries and didn't play football again until mid-November, when he appeared in a reserve fixture against Sheffield United.