A preview says Wood spent around six months sidelined with a serious knee injury before returning in April. Since then, he has reportedly scored three goals in 15 Premier League appearances for his club.
That is a modest scoring return for a striker expected to carry a national attack. Yet the same report credits Wood with 45 goals in 90 international matches, underlining why New Zealand continue to trust his experience in major fixtures.
His value will extend beyond finishing. Wood’s hold-up play, aerial ability and capacity to bring runners into the game could be vital against an Iranian defence likely to test New Zealand’s ability to play through pressure.
New Zealand’s dependence becomes clearer when the alternatives are assessed. The report lists Kosta Barbarouses as the only other cited player to have reached double figures internationally, with 10 goals. Ben Waine is said to be one goal short of that mark.
That places greater responsibility on the attacking midfielders to create chances and offer a second scoring route. Matthew Garbett and Barbarouses must occupy dangerous positions rather than leaving Wood isolated.
The report’s projected lineup is:
The immediate test will be whether Wood can turn experience into decisive involvement after an interrupted build-up. If Iran limits his touches, New Zealand will need its supporting attackers to provide the answer. That battle will define the All Whites’ first major storyline of the tournament.