Olivier Giroud cited after ‘huge’ Newcastle United quotes emerge – pundit
Paul Robinson has backed Newcastle United striker Chris Wood to step up in the absence of Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one compared Wood, 31, to France and AC Milan centre-forward Olivier Giroud.
As reported by the Daily Mail (17 December), there are currently doubts over the fitness of Wilson and Isak.
Speaking on his current striker options, Eddie Howe said Wood is “hugely important” to his side.
The Magpies travel to Leicester City on Boxing Day as the Premier League recommences.
When asked by Football Insider if Newcastle can rely on Wood over the festive period, Robinson said: “Wood gives them something else.
“He allows them to play more direct and he is also a real threat from set pieces. He is very different to Callum Wilson who stretches defences and runs in behind. Wood plays like Giroud.
“It will be interesting to see if Eddie Howe adapts the way they play if Wilson and Isak are going to be out for an extended period.
“Wood will cause problems. He is a handful. He occupies the centre-halves. Yes, he will not run in behind and stretch teams but Newcastle have wingers that can do that.
“I don’t think it’s a major worry. They have players like Allan Saint-Maximin and [Miguel] Almiron who can step up and share the goal burden. They need to play to Wood’s strengths.”
In other news, Newcastle United backed to sign ‘brilliant’ Bruno Guimaraes partner after Sky reveal.