Chris Wood: The Journey of a Premier League Striker
Chris Wood, starting his football career in New Zealand at just 15, made headlines when he transitioned to the English Premier League at the tender age of 16. This move kickstarted his journey to professional success, culminating in a remarkable career that saw him competing alongside the likes of Salah and Haaland.
A Whirlwind of Opportunities
Upon his arrival in England, Wood quickly made his Premier League debut for West Brom under Tony Mowbray in 2009. Despite facing relegation with West Brom, he soon realized the importance of consistent playing time to further his career. This realization led him on an adventurous three-year journey across various clubs where he honed his skills and gained invaluable experience.
Wood humorously recalls, “I just wanted to see the country!” His loan stints at six different clubs, including Barnsley, Brighton, Birmingham, Bristol City, Millwall, and Leicester, presented him with diverse challenges that shaped him into the player he is today. Each club brought its unique set of circumstances, contributing to Wood’s growth and development on and off the field.
A Pivot at Leeds
After solidifying his presence at Leicester, Wood’s career took a transformative turn when he joined Leeds United in 2015. Despite his young age of 23, Wood’s goal-scoring prowess and dedication were evident. His time at Leeds, especially under the guidance of Garry Monk and James Beattie, marked a significant milestone in his career. Beattie’s mentorship played a vital role in Wood’s stellar season, where he netted 27 goals in 44 appearances, showcasing his true potential.
Reflecting on his time at Leeds, Wood emphasizes the impact of his mentors, stating, “It was down to him helping me and giving me the tools to be able to thrive on the pitch.” Beattie’s guidance helped Wood overcome challenges and maximize his performance, setting the stage for his future achievements.
A Consistent Force at Burnley
Wood’s journey to Burnley in 2017 marked a turning point in his career. Becoming Burnley’s record signing at the time, Wood quickly proved his worth by delivering consistent performances. Over five seasons, he played a pivotal role in keeping Burnley in the Premier League, a testament to his goal-scoring abilities and teamwork. His partnership with Ashley Barnes flourished, with Barnes describing their connection as ‘telepathic’ and attributing their success to complementary movements on the field.
Speaking about his time at Burnley, Wood reminisces, “We did extremely well with 18 other lads that stuck together for five years.” His contributions on the pitch and camaraderie with his teammates solidified his legacy at Burnley, where he etched his name as a prolific striker in the Premier League.
The Nottingham Legacy and Beyond
Following a brief stint at Newcastle, Wood’s journey led him to Nottingham Forest in January 2023. Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, Wood’s goal output soared under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo. Nuno’s confidence in Wood’s abilities and the team’s more attacking approach unleashed Wood’s full potential, allowing him to thrive on the field.
Reflecting on his impact, Wood’s former coach, Mike Groom, praises his influence on New Zealand football, drawing parallels between Wood and iconic players like Salah and Haaland. Wood’s achievements as New Zealand’s record goal scorer and captain exemplify his dedication to his country and the sport.
Looking ahead, Wood remains determined to inspire future generations of footballers in New Zealand, stating, “I want to grow that generation of new kids wanting to play football and wanting to dream of doing the best they can.” His unwavering commitment to his craft and his vision for the future epitomize the essence of his remarkable journey.
As Chris Wood continues to make waves in the Premier League, his story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide. Watch him in action as Nottingham Forest takes on Newcastle this Sunday, live on Sky Sports at 2 pm.
