Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood has extended his stay at the City Ground after signing a new contract that runs until 2027. The 33-year-old New Zealand international has been instrumental in Forest’s impressive Premier League campaign, netting 14 goals in 22 appearances to propel the club to third place in the standings.
Chris Wood initially joined Nottingham Forest on loan from Newcastle United in January 2023 before making his move permanent in June of that year. Despite being with the club for just two years, he has already cemented his place in Forest’s history, becoming the club’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer by surpassing Bryan Roy’s record of 24 goals in December. His consistent performances and leadership on the pitch have made him a key figure in the team’s resurgence under manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
Chris Wood and Forest Share Ambitious Vision
Expressing his delight at the contract extension, Wood emphasized his commitment to Nottingham Forest’s long-term goals. “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.”
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis also praised Chris Wood’s impact, highlighting his exceptional performances and leadership qualities. “More than just his goals, he epitomizes everything that it means to wear the Garibaldi red – hard work, a fighting and winning spirit, and the attitude to never give up,” Marinakis said. “He is a winner and a role model to inspire all of us, and we reward his dedication with ours.”
Chris Wood’s previous contract was set to expire at the end of the current season, but his new deal secures his place in Forest’s future. He becomes the second player to commit to the club this month, following the contract extension of center-back Murillo. With Nottingham Forest pushing for a top-four finish, Wood’s presence will be crucial in their quest for European football.
Chris Wood’s Impact on Nottingham Forest’s Relegation Survival and Ambitious European Push
In the 2023-24 season, Chris Wood was a pivotal figure in helping Nottingham Forest avoid relegation from the Premier League. Scoring 14 crucial goals, he demonstrated his undeniable value to the team, securing their place in the top flight for another season. His impressive record continued as he added to his tally, now boasting 30 goals in 65 appearances across all competitions.
Chris Wood’s influence at the City Ground reached new heights following the appointment of Nuno Espirito Santo as manager in December 2023. Under the Portuguese coach, Wood netted 25 of his 29 league goals, highlighting the synergy between the player and manager. As Forest aims to return to European competition for the first time since 1995-96, Wood remains central to their ambitions. The club’s impressive league form has seen them go unbeaten in eight matches, including a historic 1-0 victory over Premier League leaders Liverpool in September.
A New Chapter in Wood’s Premier League Journey
Chris Wood’s journey in English football has been a rollercoaster, but it’s at Forest where he has truly found his stride. After initially struggling to establish himself at West Brom, Wood embarked on a series of loan moves, including a stint at Leicester City, before settling at Leeds United in 2015. There, he established himself as a potent goal scorer, netting 44 goals in 88 appearances. His move to Burnley in 2017 saw him continue his strong performances, with 10 goals helping secure a spot in the Europa League.
However, it was his £25m transfer to Newcastle in January 2022 that marked the latest chapter in his Premier League career. Despite a less-than-ideal return at St James’ Park, with only five goals in 39 appearances, his move to Nottingham Forest has proven to be a masterstroke. Since joining on loan in 2023, Wood has reinvigorated his career, quickly becoming one of the top goal scorers in the league. His tally of 15 goals places him among the Premier League’s elite scorers this season, behind only the likes of Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland, and Mohamed Salah.
Chris Wood’s Long-Term Commitment to Forest’s European Aspirations
Nottingham Forest’s efforts to secure Chris Wood on a new contract represent a crucial step in their ongoing efforts to challenge for European football. Wood, who has been instrumental in their bid for a Champions League berth, has earned his richly deserved new deal, which will take him past his 35th birthday. This contract extension is part of a broader strategy by Forest, which also saw centre-back Murillo sign a new deal earlier this week, with ongoing talks over the future of defender Ola Aina.
Chris Wood’s commitment to playing at the top level, even discussing the possibility of extending his career until the age of 40, signals his dedication to both his personal goals and the team’s ambitions. While his future may not remain at Forest for the entirety of his extended career, the club is determined to make the most of his talent during this critical period. Chris Wood’s leadership, contributions, and experience have made him an integral part of Forest’s resurgence, as they push for a spot in next season’s Champions League. With his continued form, there is no reason to believe that both the player and club won’t continue to shine together in the years to come
