Chris Wood: Salary| How old is| Teams| Footballer| New zealand

Who Is Chris Wood?

Chris Wood is a professional footballer from New Zealand who plays as a striker. Born in Auckland, he has spent most of his professional career in England, where he developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable goal scorers.

Wood is known for his aerial ability, physical presence, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing. Over the years, he has represented several English clubs while becoming the captain and all-time leading scorer of New Zealand’s national football team.

His consistency has made him one of Oceania’s most successful football exports and a role model for aspiring footballers throughout New Zealand.

How Old Is Chris Wood?

Chris Wood was born on December 7, 1991, in Auckland, New Zealand. As of 2026, he is 34 years old.

Despite being in his mid-thirties, Wood has continued to perform at a high level in one of the world’s toughest football leagues. His experience, positioning, and finishing ability have allowed him to remain effective even as younger forwards emerge.

Chris Wood Quick Facts

Chris Wood Salary

One of the most searched questions about the striker is: What is Chris Wood’s salary?

Reports indicate that Chris Wood earns approximately £82,000 per week at Nottingham Forest, translating to around £4.26 million per year. His current contract reportedly runs through June 2027.

Other estimates place his annual earnings even higher when bonuses and incentives are included, reflecting his importance to Nottingham Forest and his proven Premier League record.

Career Earnings

Having played professionally for more than 15 years, Wood has accumulated substantial earnings through:

• Premier League contracts
• Transfer bonuses
• Performance incentives
• Sponsorship deals
• International appearances

His long-standing presence in English football has made him one of New Zealand’s wealthiest footballers.

Chris Wood’s Early Football Journey

Wood’s football story began in New Zealand, where he developed through local clubs before attracting international attention.

His youth career included spells with:

• Onehunga Sports
• Cambridge AFC
• Hamilton Wanderers
• Waikato FC

His performances quickly caught the attention of scouts from England. As a teenager, he secured a move to West Bromwich Albion, beginning a career that would span numerous English clubs.

Teams Chris Wood Has Played For

Throughout his career, Chris Wood has represented multiple clubs across England.

West Bromwich Albion

Wood joined West Bromwich Albion in 2009 and made his Premier League debut while still a teenager. Although first-team opportunities were limited, the club served as a vital stepping stone.

Loan Spells

To gain experience, Wood spent time on loan at:

• Barnsley
• Brighton & Hove Albion
• Birmingham City
• Bristol City
• Millwall
• Leicester City

These loans helped him develop physically and tactically.

Leicester City

After impressing during a loan spell, Leicester City signed Wood permanently in 2013.

Although opportunities were inconsistent, he gained valuable Championship and Premier League experience.

Ipswich Town

Wood briefly joined Ipswich Town, where he continued refining his game as a target striker.

Leeds United

A breakthrough arrived at Leeds United.

Wood became one of the Championship’s most feared forwards, scoring goals consistently and winning admiration from supporters.

His prolific performances eventually earned him a major Premier League move.

Burnley

In 2017, Burnley signed Chris Wood for a club-record fee.

This transfer marked a turning point in his career. Wood quickly established himself as Burnley’s main striker and delivered several productive seasons.

He regularly scored double-digit goals in the Premier League and helped Burnley maintain top-flight status.

Newcastle United

Wood moved to Newcastle United in January 2022.

His signing was part of Newcastle’s effort to strengthen their squad following a change in ownership.

Although goals were less frequent than at Burnley, his work rate and experience proved valuable.

Nottingham Forest

Chris Wood joined Nottingham Forest initially on loan before making the move permanent.

At Forest, he experienced a remarkable resurgence.

The striker became one of the Premier League’s most efficient finishers and played a major role in the club’s rise up the league table. His goal-scoring performances earned widespread praise across England.

Chris Wood and Nottingham Forest

At Nottingham Forest, Wood has enjoyed some of the best football of his career.

His ability to:

• Hold up play
• Score headed goals
• Convert chances inside the penalty area
• Lead the attack

has made him indispensable.

Many football analysts viewed his performances during the 2024–25 and 2025–26 seasons as evidence that experienced strikers can still thrive in modern football.

Forest supporters have embraced Wood as a fan favorite due to his professionalism and consistency.

Chris Wood’s New Zealand Career

Wood’s international career has been historic.

Representing New Zealand since his teenage years, he became:

• Team captain
• All-time leading scorer
• One of the most capped players in national team history

As of 2026, he has recorded approximately 88 international appearances and 45 goals for the All Whites.

These numbers place him among the most successful players in Oceania football history.

World Cup Appearances

One of Wood’s proudest achievements is representing New Zealand on football’s biggest stage.

2010 FIFA World Cup

Wood participated in the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

New Zealand famously finished the tournament unbeaten, drawing all three group matches, including a memorable result against Italy.

2026 FIFA World Cup

Sixteen years later, Wood returned as captain of the All Whites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

His leadership and experience were expected to play a major role in New Zealand’s campaign.

Why Chris Wood Is Important to New Zealand Football

Football has traditionally lived in the shadow of rugby in New Zealand.

However, Chris Wood has helped change perceptions.

His success in England demonstrated that New Zealand players can thrive at the highest level.

Wood’s achievements have inspired:

• Young footballers
• Grassroots programs
• National team ambitions

Many fans consider him the greatest footballer New Zealand has ever produced.

Playing Style

Chris Wood is a classic centre-forward.

Strengths

• Heading ability
• Finishing
• Positioning
• Hold-up play
• Physical strength
• Leadership

At 1.91 meters tall, Wood is especially dangerous from crosses and set pieces.

Areas of Influence

Wood excels in:

• Penalty-box movements
• Aerial duels
• Counterattacks
• Link-up play

His experience allows him to compensate for any decline in pace by making intelligent runs and reading defenders effectively.

Injury Challenges

Like many veteran players, Wood has faced injury setbacks.

In 2025 and 2026, he dealt with knee issues that required surgery and rehabilitation. Fortunately, he returned in time to contribute for Nottingham Forest and New Zealand ahead of important fixtures.

His recovery demonstrated the professionalism and determination that have characterized his career.

Records and Achievements

Chris Wood has accumulated numerous achievements, including:

Individual Honors

• New Zealand all-time leading scorer
• Premier League Team of the Year recognition
• Multiple Player of the Year awards

Club Achievements

• Championship promotions
• Consistent Premier League goal-scoring records
• Key contributions to Nottingham Forest’s success

International Achievements

• New Zealand captain
• World Cup participant
• Oceania football icon

Legacy of Chris Wood

When football historians discuss New Zealand’s greatest players, Chris Wood will undoubtedly occupy a prominent place.

His career has included:

• More than a decade in English football
• Premier League success
• International leadership
• Historic goal-scoring records

Few players from Oceania have enjoyed a comparable level of success.

Whether measured by goals, longevity, or influence, Wood’s legacy is secure.

Conclusion

Chris Wood’s journey from Auckland to the Premier League is one of the most inspiring stories in New Zealand sport. At 34 years old, the Nottingham Forest striker continues to perform at a high level while leading New Zealand on the international stage.

With a salary exceeding £4 million annually, a distinguished club career, and a record-breaking international résumé, Wood has become the benchmark for New Zealand footballers aspiring to compete at the highest level.

As captain of the All Whites and one of the Premier League’s most respected forwards, Chris Wood remains a symbol of excellence, determination, and national pride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How old is Chris Wood?

Chris Wood was born on December 7, 1991, and is 34 years old as of 2026.

What is Chris Wood’s salary?

Chris Wood reportedly earns around £82,000 per week, which equates to approximately £4.26 million per year at Nottingham Forest.

Which club does Chris Wood play for?

Chris Wood plays for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League.

What position does Chris Wood play?

He plays as a striker or centre-forward.

How many goals has Chris Wood scored for New Zealand?

As of 2026, Wood has scored 45 goals for New Zealand, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer.

Has Chris Wood played in the FIFA World Cup?

Yes. He represented New Zealand in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and returned as captain for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What teams has Chris Wood played for?

Chris Wood has played for West Bromwich Albion, Barnsley, Brighton, Birmingham City, Bristol City, Millwall, Leicester City, Ipswich Town, Leeds United, Burnley, Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest.

Is Chris Wood New Zealand’s best footballer?

Many fans and experts consider Chris Wood the greatest footballer in New Zealand history due to his Premier League success and record-breaking international career.