Newcastle United striker Chris Wood has told The Chronicle that he has no intention of leaving Eddie Howe’s side ahead of the January window – amid reports that have touted him with a potential return to Leeds United next month.
Wood, 31, joined Newcastle in the January window from Burnley, for a fee of £25million. But he has endured a tricky time on Tyneside since, scoring just four goals in 33 games. Obviously, he brings a lot more to the team than just goals.
Journalist Dean Jones has told Give Me Sport that Leeds plan to keep tabs on the New Zealand striker ahead of the January window. Wood, of course, played 88 times for Leeds during a two-year spell between 2015 and 2017.
He scored 44 goals in that time, including 30 in one season. However, Garry Monk’s side failed to finish in the top six and he left for Burnley – where he netted 53 times in 165 games. Wood was asked about his future, amid Leeds reports.
“100% [want to see his contract at Newcastle out]. Especially with the way the club is going, I’d love to be here long-term. I have a big part to play here. I have not shown my best here yet but hopefully I can do that given the chance.”
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Newcastle striker Wood has no intention of leaving amid Leeds reports
Firstly, Leeds need a striker. We need a no.9 that can take the heat off of Rodrigo. Patrick Bamford has undergone surgery and it is unclear how long will be sidelined through injury. Wood has fallen down the Newcastle pecking order.
Alex Isak and Callum Wilson are ahead of him in the rankings. But would Wood suit this Leeds side, who are much more of a footballing side these days. Wood is a target man and suits specific clubs; Leeds is no longer that type.
