£25m man responds to Newcastle United exit rumours ahead of January transfer window

Chris Wood has revealed he's "committed" to Newcastle United - despite talk of a potential move away in the January transfer window.

Everton and Leeds have been linked with a potential move for the New Zealand international next month, with it also revealed that Watford - along with a few other Premier League clubs - have also showed interest in the striker who only sealed a £25m move from Burnley earlier this year.

When everyone's fit, he's behind Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak in the pecking order, but with both experiencing injury issues this season, he's played a key role in our last two Premier League outings - scoring away at Southampton and leading the line in a 1-0 win over Chelsea.

Asked if he's keen to remain on Tyneside and see out his contract - which expires in 2024 - Wood had said this to The Chronicle:

"100% - especially with the way the clubs is going, I'd love to be here long-term. Or even longer than I will be.

"I still believe I have a big part to play here. I have not shown my best football here yet but hopefully I can do that given the chance. If not I am here to support the club and push them in the right direction. I am committed here and want to be here. I have played in every game expect one.

"Whatever capacity it is, I want to be here and help the manager. Whichever sees fit, if it's five minutes and seeing a game out, I am here to do it, work hard and press. If it's starting the game, scoring goals and working hard, I'm here to do that. My future is definitely here."

Howe has also been discussing Wood's role in the squad this week, describing him as a "hugely important" player who played a key role in our 1-0 win over Chelsea last month.

 "He is hugely important. I think you saw in the Chelsea game. He came in, and he was excellent that day. His tactical understanding was of the highest level.

"I thought his performance (against Vallecano), especially in the first half, was very, very good. He took his penalty well. I think Chris is probably playing with a lot of confidence at the moment."