WITH Newcastle United having only one available senior striker in the squad, Chris Wood is likely to be given his first start for the club when they face Watford in a relegation battle in the Premier League.
Wood completed his move from fellow relegation contenders Burnley on Thursday morning putting pen-to-paper on a two-and-a-half year deal.
Wood took part in his first training session yesterday morning with his new team mates under the watchful eye of head coach Eddie Howe.
Newcastle were struck with the blow that Callum Wilson is set for a spell out through injury which means the likelihood is that Wood will be in the starting line-up when the Hornets come to St James’ Park.
The 30-year-old said: “There is pressure no matter what team you are playing with or what team you are involved in.
“These are big games, not just this one, but the ones for the rest of the season so I’m enjoying being here. There is a lot of quality and a lot of great players in this group. A lot of boys to come back in as well so it’s good.
“If selected, I’m ready and looking forward to the weekend.”
Wood is the second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of Kieran Tripper from Atletico Madrid, who also signed a two-and-a-half year deal.
It will be the first time Newcastle’s new addition will feature in front of the home crowd on Tyneside.
Wood added: “I’m most looking forward to playing in front of these fans. The history, the passion that they show, 55,000 every week no matter what.
“Speaking to the boys about how they’ve been behind the team from start to finish no matter what They’ve seen how the team is adapting and trying to progress and I like to think we are right outside of that and it seems to be showing in the games.
“To walk out there, hopefully on the weekend if selected, a feel that crowd and that buzz is going to be superb.”
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