Nuno Espirito Santo believes Chris Wood can keep thriving at the highest level for several years yet, after seeing him become Nottingham Forest’s joint-top Premier League goalscorer.
Wood’s 24th Forest goal in the top flight — and his ninth of the season — was enough to secure a 1-0 win over Ipswich Town at the City Ground.
But it also moved him level with Bryan Roy, in their list of Premier League scorers. Wood, who is already New Zealand’s all time top scorer on the international stage, with 41 goals, is almost certain to break that Forest record, on current form.
And Nuno believes the man, who turns 33 on December 7, has a few more years left in him yet.
“I believe so. I believe so,” said Nuno, when asked if he expected Wood to still be going strong in a few years.
“Chris is one of those players who really takes care of himself. Nutrition, rest… Chris has the ambition to keep going, so he has to take care of his body and his mind.
“He is perfect now. He is perfect. If he continues, then good.”
Wood scored a ninth goal of the season on Saturday (Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Forest are in negotiations with Wood, who is currently out of contract next summer.
Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (10) and Erling Haaland (12) of Manchester City have scored more Premier League goals than him.
“We are delighted. It is not only here, it is in New Zealand as well — he is going to break all the records. We are delighted for him and we are so, so grateful,” said Nuno.
Wood scored from the penalty spot after Jota had been brought down by Sam Szmodics in the 49th minute.
It was Jota’s first start for Forest in the league, following his summer arrival from Vitoria and the 25-year-old was frequently a lively figure.
“Jota started the game really well. He got us going, he won us corners — then he won us the penalty,” said Nuno. “He is another option for us. We have wingers — Ramon Sosa also — who are gradually getting a little more time. They will get there. Players always need time to settle down, because the Premier League is very hard.”
GO DEEPER
In praise of Chris Wood and the subtle art of being offside
(Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
