Ian Harte, speaking exclusively to 888sport, has insisted Leeds United are “in a good place” but must invest this summer if they are to get back to the Premier League.

During the 2016/17 campaign, Leeds finished seventh in the Sky Bet Championship, with a late season collapse ultimately costing them a place in the play-offs.

Harte came through Leeds’ academy, and played for the club between 1996 and 2004, whilst the Whites were competing for trophies in the Premier League.

However, Harte left the club in 2004, following Leeds’ relegation to the Championship.

The Whites have not returned to the Premier League since then, with an exodus of players and serious financial troubles hindering Leeds in the lower divisions.

However, Harte is confident Leeds can return to their former glory under Andrea Radrizzani, he said: “The club lost all of its big assets but I do think it’s in a good place at the moment.

“I think Mr Cellino did the best that he could – he stabilised it - but it was brilliant to see that they’ve been taken over by Andrea Radrizzani because he’s passionate about the club and wants to get it back into the Premier League.”

Chris Wood bagged 30 goals across all competitions for Leeds last season, and is sure to attract interest from top-flight clubs this summer.

When asked if the New Zealand international could be the difference between Leeds challenging for promotion again or staying in the Championship, Harte replied: “Of course because of all the goals that he has scored but it’s also important that they keep hold of their centre-halves (Kyle Bartley and Pontus Jansson) because they’ve been so solid.

“They need to strengthen in certain positions and bring in better players who will be capable of handling the Premier League. I’m sure that’s what they’ll be addressing over the summer.”

Read the full 888sport interview with Ian Harte​, including why Jaap Stam is good enough to manage a Premier League team.