Forest optimistic Wood injury not serious ahead of Brighton clash

Chris Wood was forced off early on Monday as New Zealand claimed a crucial 3-0 win over New Caledonia to seal their place in the 2026 World Cup. He seemingly landed awkwardly after taking a shot in the second half of the fixture.

According to 'The Athletic', the 33-year-old is expected back in England on Thursday after completing his international duty with the All Whites. He will be assessed by the Nottingham Forest medical staff, though there is optimism that the issue is not serious.

The Tricky Trees will be hoping to get their goalscorer back as focus is shifting back to club football. They take on Brighton in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Saturday before they face Manchester United on their return to Premier League action on Tuesday.

Wood has been crucial in third-placed Forest's charge towards an almost-guaranteed European spot, scoring 18 goals this term. He is the fourth top scorer in the English top flight this season, finding himself behind only Salah (27), Haaland (21) and Isak (19).