Chris Wood Returns for Forest After Injury Layoff

Chris Wood is set to make his long-awaited return to the Nottingham Forest squad after six months out injured, providing a timely boost ahead of their Europa League quarter-final.

The 34-year-old striker has not featured since October due to a knee injury that required surgery in December. However, he has now travelled with the squad to Portugal for the first-leg clash, confirming his availability.

Key Return at Crucial Moment

Forest manager Vitor Pereira confirmed Wood’s inclusion but stressed the need to manage his fitness:

“He is an experienced player, he scores goals and it’s important to be ready for the team in this moment.”

Wood’s return could not come at a more critical time, with Forest competing on two fronts — European progression and Premier League survival.

Proven Impact on Forest’s Attack

The New Zealand international was instrumental last season, scoring 20 goals as Forest secured a top-seven finish.

His absence this campaign has been felt significantly:

• Forest averaged 1.42 goals per game last season
• That has dropped to 1.0 goal per game this season
• Wood contributed 34.8% of total goals last year

The numbers underline his influence, with Forest also enjoying a higher win rate when he starts compared to when he is absent.

Gradual Comeback Path

Wood has already taken steps toward full fitness, featuring for the club’s Under-21 side and scoring in a recent win over Newcastle United.

Now back with the senior squad, his experience and goal-scoring ability could prove decisive in the final stretch of the season.

Balancing Europe and Survival

Forest are currently just three points above the relegation zone while also chasing a historic European semi-final place.

Pereira highlighted the challenge ahead:

“The Europa League is very important, but it is also very important to keep the club in the Premier League.”

With fixtures piling up, squad rotation and player fitness will be key — making Wood’s return even more valuable.