Wood Set To Stay An Owl

Owls boss Paul Sturrock is set to reject any forthcoming offers for highly-rated young defender Richard Wood as he looks set to build his side for next season.

Wakefield-born Wood impressed for the Owls this season before an injury ruled him out for the final few months. His form is likely to have attracted the attention of clubs - but Sturrock is desperate to keep hold of him.

Sturrock told the Sheffield Star today: 'Wood is turning into a quality player and I'm sure people will make inquiries about him in the summer, but he is going nowhere.'

Wood, 20, formed an impressive partnership alongside Owls' player of the season Graham Coughlan in the centre of defence during a tough period as the club battled against the drop.

But now Sturrock wants the club to progress next season and will be looking for much more than consolidation as he builds towards the Premiership. Wood is set to play a major part in the re-building of the squad next season.

Wood joined the Owls as a trainee and has made 72 appearances in the blue and white shirt after being given his debut by Chris Turner. He's also netted three times along the way and is set to play a major part in the Owls season next term.

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