New Zealand Football confirmed that Chris Wood was left out of New Zealand’s second clash with Fiji over the international break because of injury. The Leeds United top scorer however is not believed to have sustained a major problem, with Kiwi coach Anthony Hudson deciding to be ‘extra cautious’.
The 25-year-old found the back of the net a few days ago in the first clash against Fiji, netting from the spot in a 2-0 victory away from home. He is understood to have been on the wrong end of a strong challenge in that encounter, collecting a knock in the process. It presents Leeds head coach Garry Monk with a slight question mark over the fitness of his star striker going into an important trip to Reading on Saturday night.
New Zealand won the second game 2-0 without their elite forward, but Hudson stated that there isn’t an real need for panic or major concern over the problem sustained by Wood,
“Chris is obviously a significant player and leader for us so it is a blow, but we have a strong squad here and I am sure we have enough quality to get the result in Wellington tonight.
“Chris’s injury is not too serious but I’ve decided to be extra cautious. It is important that we have a fit and healthy Chris Wood for the FIFA Confederations Cup and qualifiers late in the year.
“As I said after the last game, it’s important for us now to push on again and put another strong performance in.”
Wood has been in tremendous form for the Whites this season, netting 24 goals already as they look to seal an end of season place in the play-offs. So much so, he has been nominated for the Championship Player of the Year Award at the upcoming EFL Awards. Leeds will be hoping to call upon Wood for the trip to Berkshire in a few days time.
All the best to the All Whites tonight. Gutted I can't be there. Watching and sending support. 👊🏼.
— Chris Wood (@officialcwood) March 28, 2017
