Chris Wood could be binned for ‘big-money’ arrival after Newcastle development – pundit
Chris Wood will face stiff competition for his Newcastle place next season as the Magpies prepare to draft in a “big-money” striker this summer, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed “it just hasn’t clicked” for the 30-year-old since his arrival at St James’ Park.
Wood, who has netted two goals in 14 games for Newcastle, dropped to the bench for Eddie Howe’s side for the first time as they beat Norwich 3-0 on Saturday (23 April).
The New Zealand international joined the mega-rich Magpies from Burnley in January for a reported £25million.
Whelan suggested the hitman has failed to score enough goals to cement his place for next season.
“It just hasn’t clicked for Chris Wood as quickly as he or Newcastle would have liked,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They needed firepower and a different option, and he does offer you that. He’s got the height and the hold-up play to make himself a real nuisance.
“I’ve got no doubt that the goals will come for Chris Wood.
“But if you look at what they’re going to need beyond this summer – I’m they’ll be in the market for another striker.
“They’ll go into the market and spend big money. That will result in more competition for Wood to try and keep his place. You can never have too many strikers.
“Wood leads the line well and occupies defences – but as a forward, and they’ll all tell you – you won’t have a good game unless you’re on that scoresheet.”
Football Insider revealed last week (20 April) that Brentford will demand at least £30million for Ivan Toney amid interest from Newcastle and Brighton.
The Magpies sit ninth in the Premier League.
In other news, finance guru claims Newcastle are ready to spend “infinite resources” as new FFP ploy explained.