Chris Wood Returns from Injury Ahead of World Cup

Chris Wood, a 34-year-old forward for Nottingham Forest, has returned from a lengthy injury spell due to a knee injury that required surgery in December. His return was confirmed by Nottingham Forest's coach, Vitor Pereira, during a press conference ahead of the club's Europa League quarter-final first leg match against FC Porto.

Wood had been sidelined since October but has now resumed training with the team and is available for selection in upcoming games. This return is particularly significant for New Zealand as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, where they will compete in Group G against Belgium, Egypt, and Iran.

Wood is New Zealand's all-time leading goalscorer, with 45 goals, and last participated in a World Cup during the 2010 tournament in South Africa.