Wood, currently fourth in the Premier League’s scoring charts with 18 goals, was forced off in the 53rd minute of New Zealand’s 3-0 win over New Caledonia in World Cup qualifying on Monday. Despite the setback, New Zealand secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup, joining Japan as the second team to qualify.
Nuno Confirms Wood’s Absence
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo confirmed that Wood “felt a kick really hard on his hip” and was still in pain after undergoing a scan with a specialist.
"He will not be available for this game (against Brighton),” Nuno said.
A Major Setback for Forest’s Champions League Hopes
Wood’s absence comes at a crucial point in Forest’s season. The team currently sits third in the Premier League with nine games remaining, firmly in the race for a historic Champions League qualification.
With the top five teams likely to secure spots in next season’s Champions League, Forest holds a seven-point advantage over sixth-placed Newcastle. However, losing their top scorer could put their European ambitions at risk.
As Forest prepares for their FA Cup clash without their star forward, all eyes will be on how Nuno adjusts his attacking lineup to compensate for Wood’s absence.