Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood is being considered for a potential return to action this Friday, as the club's B team prepares to face Newcastle. This marks a significant step in his recovery from a knee injury that has sidelined him since October, with his absence keenly felt by the struggling Premier League side.
Forest's Desperate Need for Goals
Chris Wood was Forest's top scorer last season, netting an impressive 20 goals, but he has not played since October due to a knee issue. His return could not come at a more critical time, as the club currently sits above the relegation zone solely on goal difference. They face a tough away match against fellow strugglers Tottenham on Sunday, heightening the urgency for his comeback.
Encouraging Signs from Training
Daily Mail Sport reported earlier this week that Forest hoped Wood would play a part in the final stages of the campaign. If he features against Newcastle in the B team match, it would be a hugely positive development. Forest boss Vitor Pereira has been closely monitoring his progress, noting that Wood has been working outdoors in recent weeks and recently joined the team for warm-ups.
Pereira commented on the situation, stating, 'I don’t want to push him up, but I think he will be able to help us in the last few games of the season. He is important for the group because he has quality. He scores goals, and he has the personality to help us.' He added, 'I usually don’t push the players to come earlier, but today he started the warm-up with the team. I really hope we can have him for the last games because he’s an important player.'
Scoring Struggles Without Wood
In Wood's absence, Morgan Gibbs-White has led Forest's scoring efforts in the league this season with eight goals. However, the team has managed only 28 goals overall in the campaign, underscoring the offensive void left by Wood's injury. His potential return could provide a much-needed boost to their attacking prowess as they battle to avoid relegation.
Forest's European Commitments
Amidst domestic concerns, Forest recently returned from Denmark after a victory over FC Midtjylland, securing a place in the last eight of the Europa League. They are set to face FC Porto over two legs next month, adding to their packed schedule. Wood's recovery and possible reintegration could be timed perfectly to aid both their league survival bid and European ambitions.
