Chris Wood is hoping New Zealand draw England in the World Cup after helping his nation qualify for the tournament for only the second time in their history. The 17-year-old only made his full Albion debut at the start of the season but has already figured for his country in the Confederations Cup and the crucial play-off against Bahrain last weekend.
Wood admits the experience will live long in the memory after clinching a spot in the last 32 in South Africa and, along with England, would like to be drawn against one of his fellow teammates hoping to jet off next summer to Fifa’s showcase event.
“My initial feeling was just amazement at the final whistle," the promising youngster said.
"We're only the second team in New Zealand history to qualify.
"It's a very big achievement and I'm full of happiness and excitement about going to the World Cup - the biggest international stage in the world.
"I'm looking forward to the draw.
“It would be good to get one of the other Baggies boys but most of all I'd love to draw England.
"It's hard to imagine being on the pitch with the likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard at a major tournament.
"They're all world-class players.
"New Zealand were ranked 100th in the world before we qualified, while everyone else seems to be ranked in the top 40.
"We're a big outsider and it's a great achievement for all of us to be going to a World Cup."