Chris Wood reveals why he left Burnley for Newcastle United - as two clubs battle for Premier League safety

Chris Wood has opened up on his decision to swap Burnley for Newcastle United - as the two clubs battle against each other for Premier League safety.

The 30-year-old became the Magpies’ second signing of the January transfer window after a £25million release clause was activated in his contract.

Still, Wood could have opted to stay at Turf Moor, however the New Zealand international has explained why he was eager to make the switch to St James’ Park.

Wood travelled up to Tyneside on Wednesday for his medical and to discuss personal terms before being officially unveiled this morning.

The Clarets are said to be furious to lose Wood to United given the two teams sit on the same number of points (11) in the top-flight table.

‘No bad blood with Burnley’

“For me, there is no bad blood there at all. I really enjoyed my four-and-a-half years at Burnley,” Wood told reporters during his media unveiling.

“The highs we had playing in the Europa League and pushing for 10th in the league.

“Even when we were fighting relegation, the crowd was absolutely superb, they were always behind the lads and me as a striker. I have great memories there.

“It was a case of this being a massive opportunity, massive club and something I couldn’t turn down.”

‘Gut feeling’

With Callum Wilson out for eight weeks with a calf problem, and Dwight Gayle missing from Saturday’s FA Cup exit to Cambridge United, Wood is in line to start against Watford this weekend - a huge six-pointer at the bottom of the table.

Wood added: “You’ve got to go along with what your gut says and it was just one of those feelings.

“I think it is the right time in my career. I was very happy and comfortable at Burnley but nothing great ever happens in your comfort zone.

“I’m a firm believer in stepping out of your comfort zone to achieve greatness.

“I’m under no illusions that this is going to be a big challenge for me but it could potentially be great for me, and at the same time, great for the club.

“That’s how I knew it was the right time and decision to head this way.”