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Garry Monk has no idea why Leeds United striker Chris Wood was heavily criticised early in the season

Leeds United's Chris Wood celebrates after scoring their second goal (REUTERS)
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The Leeds boss was talking ahead of this weekend’s Championship fixture against Ipswich Town.

Leeds United's Chris Wood celebrates after scoring their second goalLeeds United’s Chris Wood celebrates after scoring their second goal

Leeds United manager Garry Monk has told TV Yorkshire he does not know why Chris Wood was so heavily criticised earlier in the campaign.

Leeds are currently on a good run of form – winning their last three games in all competitions.

One key reason for that upturn in results has been the improved killer instinct from the New Zealand international striker.

The 24-year-old has scored three goals in as many games and his performances are also matching the goal figures.

Earlier in the campaign he found himself criticised by Leeds fans, who have certainly had trouble learning to love the Kiwi frontman.

Leeds United manager Garry MonkLeeds United manager Garry Monk

But Monk does not know why and the Leeds boss told TV Yorkshire it is not only his goalscoring that has impressed him about Wood’s recent form:

“I am obviously pleased for him. He came in for criticism earlier in the season which I don’t quite understand.

“His contribution in terms of goals has been very good but I don’t judge him on that. I judge him on what he can contribute to the team and how they work for the team.

“Of course, strikers, you want them to be scoring goals.

“I thought his all-round performance was a very high level.”

Wood has many qualities but is at time a frustrating striker to watch – especially when he isn’t taking his chances.

But he is something of a streaky striker and now he has found the back of the net Leeds fans and their manager Monk will be hoping it is the start of a good goal run.