Completely understand about not selecting Smith and Kosta (particularly Kosta) with views to thinking long term, because there are players around the same level (and arguably better) who are younger. It's obvious both of those aren't going to be around in over 3 years time for the next WC.
But talking about dropping Wood is insane.
He's the first name on the team sheet if fit... he's someone who fans want to see since he's played PL (sorry but Kosta isn't going to be getting any extra fans along to games or watching on TV). Even if he isn't going to be available for the next WC he is one of the rare few who deserves to be picked.
I think that even If he doesn't get injured, he'll still be good enough for this team in 3 years time (even if he's likely in the lower English leagues or similar, or only good off the bench for x minutes) given there aren't any kiwis around the world scoring goals. It's very lean striker pickings compared to the days of Wood/Killen/Smeltz/Fallon all being available a decade back.
But talking about dropping Wood is insane.
He's the first name on the team sheet if fit... he's someone who fans want to see since he's played PL (sorry but Kosta isn't going to be getting any extra fans along to games or watching on TV). Even if he isn't going to be available for the next WC he is one of the rare few who deserves to be picked.
I think that even If he doesn't get injured, he'll still be good enough for this team in 3 years time (even if he's likely in the lower English leagues or similar, or only good off the bench for x minutes) given there aren't any kiwis around the world scoring goals. It's very lean striker pickings compared to the days of Wood/Killen/Smeltz/Fallon all being available a decade back.
So you think in 3 years time that Wood will be the first name on the team sheet?
Can you expand a bit on what you mean by "deserves to be picked"? Is it just a reward for service to the game and not whether he can impact the game itself?
Ah I see it now, I agree with this bit you said here, mainly the "off the bench" bit:
"I think that even If he doesn't get injured, he'll still be good enough for this team in 3 years time (even if he's likely in the lower English leagues or similar, or only good off the bench for x minutes) "