 |
Chris WoodrantNew Zealand footballer
Date of Birth: 07.12.1991
Country:  New Zealand |
Content:
- Early Life and Career in New Zealand
- Move to England and Breakthrough at West Brom
- Loan Spells and Rise to Prominence
- Leicester City and Premier League Success
- Leeds United and Record Transfer
- Move to Burnley and New Zealand National Team
- Honours and Achievements
Early Life and Career in New Zealand
Chris Wood was born in Auckland, New Zealand, the largest city in the country. He began playing soccer at a young age and started his professional career at age 15 with Waikato FC in the New Zealand Football Championship. After a short stint there, he moved to Hamilton Wanderers in 2008, where he quickly gained recognition as a prolific goalscorer.
Move to England and Breakthrough at West Brom
In 2009, Wood was invited to a trial at West Bromwich Albion's academy and impressed the club. He signed a youth contract and began scoring consistently for the youth and reserve teams. In April 2009, he made his Premier League debut against Portsmouth and subsequently signed a two-year professional contract.
Loan Spells and Rise to Prominence
Wood struggled to break into the West Brom starting lineup and was sent out on loan to several clubs, including Barnsley, Brighton, Birmingham City, Bristol City, and Millwall. During these loan spells, he found his scoring touch and established himself as a potent striker in the lower divisions.
Leicester City and Premier League Success
Wood's impressive performances with Millwall caught the attention of Leicester City, who signed him in January 2013. He continued his goal-scoring exploits, helping Leicester secure a place in the Premier League in the 2013/14 season. However, he struggled to make an impact in the top flight.
Leeds United and Record Transfer
In 2015, Wood joined Leeds United for a reported fee of £2.5 million. He quickly became the team's leading scorer and, in the 2016/17 season, was named the Championship's Golden Boot winner with 27 goals in 44 games.
Move to Burnley and New Zealand National Team
In August 2017, Wood was signed by Burnley for a club-record £15 million. He made his New Zealand national team debut in 2009 and has represented his country at the FIFA World Cup and the OFC Nations Cup.
Honours and Achievements
Team Honours:Leicester City: Football League Championship (2013/14)
New Zealand national team: OFC Nations Cup (2016)
Individual Honours:
Football League Championship Golden Boot (2016/17)
Football League Championship Player of the Month (January 2017)
EFL Championship Team of the Season (2016/2017)
