Newcastle United striker Chris Wood has been among the goals again for New Zealand.
The 30-year-old was on target twice for his country in the 7-1 win over New Caledonia.
Wood didn’t actually start the game, instead coming on in the 71st minute.
He quickly set about making an impact, tapping in past Jean-Gilles Hnamuko after a really well-timed run to beat the offside trap.
Minutes later he was on hand to score an easy header to make it 6-1.
His brace came just days after another two-goal haul against Fiji, which saw him become his country’s all-time top goalscorer.
It has been a really good week for Wood, who has obviously struggled for goals at club level this season.
Prior to his move to Newcastle, he had only scored three goals for Burnley.
Since becoming a Magpies player, he has managed just the one goal against Southampton.
He has been playing well in terms of his link-up play, but his goal return has been underwhelming.
But it’s very possible now that Wood could be a changed man when he returns to St. James’ Park.
Goals do wonders for any striker’s confidence. At the end of the day, that is their primary job within the team.
Things haven’t really gone as well as everyone hoped since his £25 million January transfer (BBC Sport), but they could now pick up for Wood after a really productive week.
Four-goal haul and Wilson’s impending return could prompt improvement for Wood at Newcastle
The level of opposition was undoubtedly not the highest he’s faced.
But Wood will take real heart from scoring four goals in a week. Him becoming his country’s all-time top scorer is bound to boost his confidence as well.
There is also the notion of Callum Wilson returning to action very soon for Newcastle.
The striker is reported (Telegraph) to be targeting a return before the end of April, specifically the game against Crystal Palace.
Knowing that Wilson’s return is getting closer might be something that acts as another catalyst.
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