‘I saw ambition’ - Newcastle United flop speaks out after completing £15m turnaround
Chris Wood has penned a two-year contract at Nottingham Forest and insisted he “saw ambition” from day one at the City Ground.
Newcastle United supporters will remember the 33-year-old as a misfiring striker who struggled to make his mark at St James’ Park. Wood arrived as a stop-gap signing following the Saudi-backed takeover, with the Magpies desperate for a focal point.
He played a part in Newcastle’s quest for survival but soon found game time difficult to come by once Alexander Isak arrived the following summer. Just five goals in 39 games hardly places Wood among the pantheon of great Tyneside centre-forwards.
However, the New Zealand international has enjoyed a renaissance at Forest, netting 29 times in 58 appearances, An impressive 14 Premier League goals this season is just one fewer than Toon sensation Isak.
The Tricky Trees have now rewarded Wood with a two-year contract - keeping him tied down until 2027. Following the announcement, the former Newcastle outcast spoke about the potential at Forest, which sits third in the Premier League.
“I’m very excited and very happy to have it completed and done and I’m looking forward to the next couple of years, at least,” he said. “I saw the ambition when I first arrived. When I spoke to the owner and his family and saw where they want to be and where they see this club to be - it was clear they have high ambitions and big dreams.
“He has backed the club for years, even before promotion to the Premier League, which is fantastic, and the team is pushing in the right direction. I’m excited for the future. This club has a lot of potential to continue to grow and build, and that is what I want to be a part of.
“I can’t thank the fans enough. They always come in voice and they’re always behind the team and myself. It’s a pleasure playing in front of them. Here’s to a few more years together."