Burnley manager Sean Dyche has finally commented on Chris Wood’s move to Newcastle.
The 30-year-old joined the Magpies last week, who activated the £25million release clause in his contract.
Newcastle’s bid put Burnley in a powerless position, unable to stop Eddie Howe’s side snapping up their main man up front.
Wood was one of Dyche’s best players, hitting double figures in the Premier League four seasons in a row.
Now he’s joined Newcastle, a direct relegation rival for Burnley. The move reportedly angered Dyche, which is completely understandable.
And a few days after the deal went through, the 50-year-old has had his say.
What did Sean Dyche say about Newcastle signing Chris Wood?
Burnley are set to face Watford this week, but it could be called off with the Clarets issuing a postponement request.
The pre-match press conference has still gone ahead, and Dyche was asked about Wood’s departure.
“It wasn’t the perfect scenario,” Dyche said, as reported by the Athletic.
“Bit quieter this season but you look at his record over the years and what he brought to the team. It has happened before. Done very well for us and wish him well.”
Classy response from Dyche
There appears to be no bad blood from Dyche. While it will be disappointing for Burnley, there was nothing they could do.
It’s not Newcastle’s fault – a release clause is there to be activated. And why would Wood turn us down? He’ll be on more money, and has a longer contract at a vital time in his career. He now has more security.
Dyche will just be hoping that the money is reinvested. As for Newcastle, they hope signing Wood will guide them to safety and condemn Burnley to the drop.
However, his debut didn’t go to plan. It wasn’t a poor performance from Wood – he just couldn’t get in the game.
Our midfielders rarely looked to get the ball into his feet, while he barely got a sniff of goal.
Hopefully things improve on Saturday when he faces one of his former clubs Leeds.