Chris Sutton backs Chris Wood for defining World Cup moment, dubs him with nickname

Chris Sutton has dubbed Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood "the Wood-chopper" ahead of the World Cup.

Wood, who recently became all-time appearance maker for New Zealand, will lead his nation to only the third World Cup in their history this summer.

The last two, in 1982 and 2010, saw them exit at the group stage, but against Iran, Egypt and Belgium, there is hope of making history.

Wood suffered a difficult season at Nottingham Forest amid a major knee injury, but he remains a dangerous goal-scorer when afforded the chance.

The New Zealand team also includes Elijah Just, who scored seven goals and provided seven assists in a superb season for Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership.

Marko Stamenic is also one to watch for the All-Whites, after he enjoyed a strong season in midfield for Swansea City.

Chris Sutton tips Chris Wood for strong World Cup start

Wood's 45 goals for New Zealand also make him the record goal-scorer for the international team.

The Nottingham Forest star is their captain, their leader and their biggest offensive threat. If they are to do the unthinkable this summer, they will need him at his best.

The striker made his international debut at just 17 years old in 2009, when he was playing for West Brom in the Championship.

Several clubs have followed for Wood since then, with the veteran growing into legend in both England and New Zealand.

The former Burnley man made his Premier League name at Turf Moor and enjoyed a superb goal-scoring period in the Championship with Leeds United, but the height of his career has likely come with Nottingham Forest.

Wood's 20 Premier League goals last season saw him become the record Premier League goal-scorer at the City Ground, and Sutton believes he can stump up another magic moment this summer.

"They have got some decent players, too, like 'the Wood-chopper' Chris Wood up top and their playmaker, Sarpreet Singh, and I am also looking forward to seeing Motherwell midfielder Elijah Just, who is a good footballer," he told BBC Sport when asked about New Zealand's opening game against Iran.

Sutton added: "So, it won't be easy for them and I am going to back 'the Wood-chopper' to get the winner."

Wood's Nottingham Forest future hangs in balance

When Wood does return from the World Cup, he will need to sit down and discuss his future with Nottingham Forest.

The 34-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract at the City Ground and could still leave this summer.

Nottingham Forest have also been linked with moves for other strikers this summer, while Igor Jesus has emerged as Vitor Pereira's number nine.

With the prospect of a season spent on the bench, Wood may well decide that his final year will be better spent elsewhere.