Offer he couldn’t refuse

CHRIS Wood said in leaving Burnley that he simply could not turn down Newcastle United.

There was general dismay at the Lancashire club when news emerged that the Magpies had activated the New Zealand international striker’s escape clause, understood to amount to £25 million, and his departure for St James’ Park has left Clarets fans fearing the worst.

However, Wood insisted he had little option after being offered the opportunity to play a part in what the Tyneside club’s ambitious new owners hope will be the start of something big.

Asked about leaving Burnley the 30-year-old said: “It wasn’t an easy decision. I just think it’s a great opportunity.

“I spent four-and-ahalf great years there, every single year I really enjoyed myself there. My team-mates, the staff, the club as a whole was fantastic.

“To be honest, I wish I’d left when Burnley were further up the league, but that’s just how it is and it’s just how football is sometimes.

“Nobody can plan these sorts of things, you’ve just got to look at what’s in front of you and how you’re doing with football at the point in time.

“It was a case of this is a massive opportunity and something that I couldn’t turn down.”

Wood, who has 60 senior caps, is Newcastle’s second January signing after the £12m capture of England full-back Kieran Trippier, and a man who reached double figures for goals in each of his four full top-flight seasons at Burnley could prove a key figure.

The Magpies and the Clarets currently occupy 19th and 18th places respectively.

Chris Wood