In the weekend’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, Wood scored his 11th goal of the season across all competitions for Forest.
The 32-year-old has undergone some change since his arrival, when he was met with criticism from fans who thought he wasn’t talented enough.
Wood scored just once for Forest last season, against Manchester City, and was sidelined for the last several weeks due to injury.
Wood returned to Forest activity in the summer, having toned down and been more fit than before.
Following his injury in November, Taiwo Awoniyi took the field by storm and hasn’t truly looked back.
Now, in front of Fulham’s match today, Espirito Santo has been talking about Wood and the attributes he offers the squad.
What Nuno Espirito Santo has said about Forest star Chris Wood
It has undeniably been a remarkable season for Forest’s standout player, Wood, who has effectively silenced his critics with his performances on the field.
His recent header was nothing short of exceptional, drawing comparisons to the kind of goal that might inspire a documentary if scored by someone like Lionel Messi, according to Sky Sports.
In anticipation of tonight’s match against Fulham, Espirito Santo was asked whether Forest striker Wood reminded him of Raul Jimenez.
The talisman of the Cottagers may face off against Forest tonight, with the team now under the management of the head coach who originally signed him for Wolves.
Espirito Santo told Nottinghamshire Live: “I believe it’s not my merit to attribute. It’s all about their abilities; their individual characteristics are more significant than any comparisons drawn between these players. Chris’s skill set differs from Raul’s.”
“However, whenever Chris is on the field, we have immense trust in him to deliver for us. He’s an outstanding professional. Our priority is to keep him fit, support him, and undoubtedly, he will play a significant role for us.”
Forest can survive if striker stays fit
It might sound unusual to acknowledge, but if Forest aims to survive this season, their hopes largely hinge on Wood’s fitness.
When he’s been in top form this season, he seems poised to score every time he steps onto the field, a trend that continued on Saturday.
During the first half of the draw against Palace, Wood struggled to get involved, receiving few opportunities to touch the ball.
However, the second half painted a different picture, with one crucial pass from Morgan Gibbs-White resulting in Wood’s latest goal.
Wood is currently in outstanding form, and it’s imperative for Forest to keep him healthy.
In our assessment, particularly with Taiwo Awoniyi sidelined due to injury, Forest’s Premier League survival now heavily relies on Wood’s fitness.
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