Leeds United boss Thomas Christiansen has commented on Chris Wood’s future with the club.
Leeds United boss Thomas Christiansen has told the Yorkshire Evening Post that he is ignoring speculation over Chris Wood’s future – but backed the striker to find the net again soon.
The Whites played out a second consecutive 0-0 home draw, as after being held to a stalemate by Preston North End on Saturday, the same thing happened against Fulham on Tuesday night.
Chris Wood of Leeds United celebrates scoring
The result comes after further speculation over Chris Wood’s future, with the striker being strongly linked with a move away from Elland Road before this month’s transfer deadline.
Wood, 25, hit 30 goals in all competitions last season in what was a stunning campaign for the New Zealand international, but his goalscoring exploits have unsurprisingly triggered major interest in his signature.
As reported by the Daily Star, Burnley have already failed with a £12million bid for Wood as they look to replace Andre Gray following his move to Watford, with Leeds allegedly holding out for £20million.
The report claims that Wood is frustrated at being blocked from moving to the Premier League and has even told the Leeds hierarchy that he wants to leave, though Leeds continue to fight to keep hold of their talismanic striker.
Now, manager Thomas Christiansen has told the Yorkshire Evening Post that he isn’t listening to speculation over Wood’s future, and is leaving the situation in the hands of club owner Andrea Radrizzani and sporting director Victor Orta.
Christiansen was also asked whether the speculation is affecting Wood’s form, as having failed to convert a one-on-one against Preston on Saturday, he squandered a similar opportunity against Fulham – and whilst Christiansen believes there is more pressure on Wood, he believes he will find the net again soon; presumably for Leeds rather than Burnley.
“I don’t know about the bids. I’m not listening to them,” said Christiansen. “I’m just focused on Chris on the pitch. When he plays, he tries to do his best. If it’s right that we have these offers, because I don’t want to listen, then the president and Victor can talk about it.”
“Of course it can influence (Wood’s thinking) a little bit, like all players when they speak about you. If they speak about the Premier League then that’s much more pressure but I believe he’ll score again soon,” he added.
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