Former Leeds United midfielder Andy Couzens has suggested that the Whites need to solve their issue with scoring goals to secure promotion this season.

Leeds moved second by beating Birmingham City 1-0 at Elland Road on Saturday and are currently two points back from league leaders West Bromwich Albion.

However, Marcelo Bielsa's side squandered a number of chances in an attacking performance front that was symptomatic of much of their season.

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Leeds' success this season has been built on the strength of their defensive unit. The Whites have conceded just seven goals this season–the fewest of any side in the division.

However, no top-six side have scored fewer goals in the Whites this season and Bielsa's men have particularly struggled in recent weeks–scoring just four goals in their last five games.

Speaking to Love Sport Radio, Couzens, who made 31 appearances for Leeds, suggested that the Yorkshire club's poor finishing was the only thing holding back their promotion push.

He said: "We are a better team than we were last season. The biggest problem that we have at the moment is scoring goals.

"Bamford–he does all the hard work and is a fantastic player for us–but unfortunately in front of goal, particularly today he had three good chances.

"If we get that sorted and we start scoring the opportunities that we are making from set plays or open play, I think we'll be there or thereabouts.

"I think we're a better team than we were last year. I think we're a fitter team than we were last year. I think Bielsa has learned from last year as well."

Leeds face a tough test on Tuesday night as they travel to Deepdale to play Preston North End, who are unbeaten at home this season.

A win for Bielsa's side could see them leapfrog the Baggies and move to the top of the Championship if Slaven Bilic's side fail to win themselves.

The Verdict

It's hard to disagree with Couzens on this one. If Leeds can start converting more of their chances they will surely be on track to finish in the top two.

Leeds have looked solid defensively all season but have been unable to convert key chances and kill games off, which has led to them suffering unfavourable results in games they have dominated.

The ties with Derby County, Nottingham Forest, Swansea City, and Charlton Athletic are examples of games that have slipped away from the Whites for that very reason.