Chris Wood, Nottingham Forest’s striker, has spoken about the turning point in his career at City Ground. Last night, he scored his 12th goal of the season as the Reds defeated Fulham 3-1 at Trentside.
Wood has been a guy on a mission during the 2023/24 campaign. He’s been in great shape since returning from a thigh injury in preseason, and he’s currently enjoying himself on the pitch.
The 32-year-old has extensive experience in the game. It’s fair to say, however, that he wasn’t a popular signing among the fans when Steve Cooper signed him from Newcastle for £15 million.
He only scored one goal last season, and after being substituted away at Tottenham in March, he did not play again due to a persistent injury that required surgery.
A shaky start to life at Forest appears to be behind Wood. With Taiwo Awoniyi injured, he is leading the charge and has paid tribute to a man behind the scenes at Forest.
He only scored one goal last season, and after being substituted away at Tottenham in March, he did not play again due to a persistent injury that required surgery.
A shaky start to life at Forest appears to be behind Wood. With Taiwo Awoniyi injured, he is leading the charge and has paid tribute to a man behind the scenes at Forest.
What Chris Wood Has Said About Nuno Espirito Santo
The Portuguese manager joined Forest in December, following Steve Cooper’s departure. Wood has been transformed under the new manager, and when Forest attack, the talisman comes to life.
Wood now has 12 goals for the season, a return that no one imagined last summer. The guy has worked hard to rebuild his strength, and he is now the primary offensive threat.
The talisman has liked collaborating with Espirito Santo at Forest. He enthused about him after last night’s game and believes the new head coach has brought him to life.
Wood told TNT Sports, “The new management has come in and has been terrific for me. He has given me the confidence to come into the team and be the main man, and he has been extremely beneficial to me.”
Wood silenced his Forest critics.
It’s always wonderful when supporters are forced to eat humble pie, and Wood has forced the Forest faithful to do just that.
Many fans believed the Reds were wasting money by taking a risk on Wood in January 2023. He scored only one goal, which came in a 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
The Reds dominated the first half Thursday night, and they blew Fulham away with a devastating 45-minute spell. The Cottagers made three changes after only 33 minutes, such was their level of play.
Wood has buckled down following a difficult first six months at Forest. In pre-season, he appeared fitter, slimmer, and stronger, and this season, he has proven to be invaluable.
What’s next for Wood?
The big target man’s contract expires in the summer, and it’s fair to say Wood is fighting to stay at Forest. He earns roughly £80,000 per week at the City Ground, and at 32, he may not be kept on.
Still, if he can maintain Forest in the Premier League this season, he will have shown his value to the club. Indeed, on present form, it’s difficult to argue that he shouldn’t have his time at Forest prolonged.
Wood is a popular member of the Forest dressing room. He gives his all in every game, and in his current situation, it is all anyone can ask.
Espirito Santo has certainly benefited Wood. To be fair, he was the only fit striker available when he joined the team, but he quickly recognized a style of play that maximizes the striker’s potential.
