Leeds United have had a pretty special season so far under the guidance of Garry Monk. The Whites have played ever so well and have generated hope at the Elland Road with respect to their promotion credentials. Currently, fourth in the league table behind the high-fliers in the shape of Brighton & Hove Albion, Newcastle United and Reading, the Whites have seen a remarkable turnaround in their stature and credit where it is due, Monk deserves a pat on his back.
Of course, the side has gelled as a unit and has clicked together but unarguably, the standout performer in their ranks this season has been Chris Wood. The New Zealander has banged goals left, right and centre and has elevated his class to a whole new level.
No wonder teams are lining up for him and calls even from the Far East have come to tempt the prolific striker. In a scenario like this, should Monk tie his main man down with a new long-term contract before the vultures come to catch their prey?
Wood has been the Peacocks’ go-to man this season up front, having found the back of the net for as many as 17 times in 27 appearances in the second tier. Apart from his goals, he has also contributed to a goal for his side and has created 26 chances as well to cement his name as a reliable centre-forward. Leeds United, however, are yet to table a lucrative contract to the Kiwi in order to waive off the interest that has been developing amongst the clubs from various nooks and corners.
For a player who is capable of hitting 25-30 goals this term, it is of paramount importance for the former Swansea City manager to ensure that his side has a hold over their striker in the years to come.
The 25-year-old knows where the goal is, plies his trade with sheer discipline, can operate with his back towards the goal, holds up the game, is strong aerially and is as lethal as a poacher in burying the chances which are offered to him. Wood has the calibre of unlocking the most stubborn defences and has proved his aura time and again. Of course, his contract expires in 2019 but considering the fact that the game is inclining towards the monetary factors, he might be tempted to leave Elland Road.
In no case should the Yorkshire-based club find themselves in a conundrum as far as keeping Woods is concerned, for there is just one perspective to it: ensure that he isn’t sold. The New Zealander has pace, runs into the channels, stretches the defences wide and has garnered truckloads of experience which will help Leeds if they get promoted next season, which is seemingly more likely than not with the form they are in.
Statistics Credits: Squawka
