Wood, who was signed amid an early spending spree by Newcastle’s new Saudi-backed owners during their first transfer window, scoring five goals in 39 appearances during his 18 months on Tyneside before joining Forest, initially on loan and then completing a £15million permanent switch in June 2023.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has jokingly admitted he's relieved he never had to face striker Chris Wood on the pitch, particularly after witnessing his imposing Haka.
Wood, a New Zealand international, performed the traditional Māori challenge as part of his initiation at Newcastle.
"I never shied away from a challenge as a player," Howe said, "but probably looking at the level I played at, I’m not sure I would fair too well against Chris.".
“Chris is a character, Chris is a strong person and that’s why when he came into the club when we were in a desperate position in the league, he immediately solidified the group.
