Former Leeds star Noel Whelan believe the club desperately require a 'big money' striker partner for Chris Wood should they truly harbour any aspirations of a promotion push, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post. 

The Whites have toiled in front of goal and have been able to muster just 39 conversions this season, a paltry one more than the relegated Bolton Wanderers.

While Wood turned in a thoroughly professional performance in the loss against Burnley this weekend, the 24-year old failed to apply the finishing touch to a glorious chance presented to him at Turf Moor.

Though nine goals in 25 outings since becoming the most expensive player the club have signed since Robbie Fowler is a respectable return on the £3m shelled out for him to Leicester City, Whelan believes the New Zealand international could use a bit of help.

'I think Chris Wood should be at Leeds United next season, but we do need to strengthen in that area, without a shadow of a doubt', stated the 41-year old.

“We are talking about key areas where teams are strong and you look at where people have spent their money and it’s in the striker’s department.'

'That is where they have spent their money – Middlesbrough, Derby, everybody – they have been bolstered either by a midfield player or a striker and paid big money for it as well.'

It has been another frustrating season for the Yorkshire giants, who are currently languishing in 15th position in the Championship table.

Now under the stewardship of Steve Evans, the club have been urged to invest by their former player if they truly want to return to the Premier League after over a decade out of it.

'But you do get your rewards back from that, as we see now. The teams that have spent the money are sitting at the top.'

“I think we need more strength in depth in that area and I think with a good, fit Chris Wood alongside another quality striker, you have then got a special strike-force.'

Next up for the Whites is a tricky trip to St. Andrew's to face a Birmingham City side who remain an outside bet to reach the playoffs.

Frustrated with lack of fire power, Leeds fans? Agree with Whelan? If so, who would you be after?