All Whites striker Chris Wood has pushed back on reports linking him with a move from Newcastle United to his former club Leeds United in the January transfer window.
Wood (31) says he is committed to Newcastle United, who he joined last January in a £25 million move from Burnley on a contract that runs till 2024.
Asked if he wanted to see out his contract at United, Wood told Chronicle Live:
“100% — especially with the way the club is going, I’d love to be here long-term. Or even longer than I will be.
“I still believe I have a big part to play here. I have not shown my best football here yet but hopefully, I can do that given the chance. If not, I am here to support the club and push them in the right direction. I am committed here and want to be here.”
Wood has started only two English Premier League games this season but has been involved in every game except two, mainly coming off the subs’ bench.
He might be set for a return to the United starting line-up for EPL games against two of his former clubs, Leicester City (December 27) and Leeds United (December 31).
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On Wednesday (December 21, NZT), Wood came off the bench during Newcastle’s 1-0 League Cup win against Bournemouth, a possible hint that he’ll be ready to start during the festive period.
“Whatever capacity it is, I want to be here and help the manager. Whichever sees fit, if it’s five minutes and seeing a game out, I am here to do it, work hard and press. If it’s starting the game, scoring goals and working hard, I’m here to do that. My future is definitely here,” Wood told Chronicle Live.