New Zealand star Wood signs new two-year deal with Nottingham Forest

Star striker Chris Wood has signed a two-year contract extension with Nottingham Forest that will keep him at the City Ground until 2027, the Premier League club announced Thursday.

The New Zealand forward has scored 14 league goals so far this season to help Forest climb to an impressive third in England’s top-flight.

Wood, 33, initially joined Forest, the two-time former European champions, on loan from Newcastle in January 2023, with the deal becoming permanent at the end of that season.

“I am very excited and very happy to have it completed and done, and I am looking forward to the next couple of years, at least,” Wood told the Forest website on Thursday.

“I saw the ambition when I first arrived. When I spoke to the owner (Evangelos Marinakis) and his family and saw where they want to be and where they see this club to be — it was clear they have high ambitions and big dreams.

“He has backed the club for years, even before promotion to the Premier League, which is fantastic, and the team is pushing in the right direction.

“I am excited for the future. This club has a lot of potential to continue to grow and build, and that is what I want to be a part of.”

Marinakis added Wood’s influence extended beyond his goal tally.

“More than just his goals, he epitomises everything that it means to wear the Garibaldi Red — hard work, a fighting and wining spirit, and the attitude to never give up,” said Marinakis.

“He is a winner and a role model to inspire all of us and we reward his dedication with ours.”