After failing to name a recognised striker on the bench at the weekend, Noel Whelan has insisted that that could turn out to be a "huge problem" for Leeds United ahead of the final eight games of the season.

The Whites resumed their season in the worst possible way on Sunday afternoon, losing 2-0 to Cardiff City in the Welsh capital thanks to goals from Junior Hoilett and Robert Glatzel.

Leeds produced a lacklustre performance and failed to show any real composure going forward, and this wasn't helped by the fact they didn't have any cover for Patrick Bamford on the bench.

How old are these 14 Leeds players?

Jean-Kevin Augustin's season could be over after picking up a hamstring injury in training, whilst Ryan Edmondson was overlooked despite Bielsa being able to name nine substitutes on the bench, and make five changes during games.

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan insists that the fact Leeds don't have a back-up striker in their battle for automatic promotion is a "joke".

He said: “It is a huge problem. A huge problem! I do not know any Championship side this weekend that did not have a striker on their bench. This is a joke, quite frankly.

"A team that is level on points, top of the league, only has one striker to choose from and no options on the bench.

"I cannot think of any side that has no replacement striker. That is poor for a club like Leeds United.

"I cannot remember a time where we have no had a second striker on the bench for the whole season.

"Most teams benches are stronger than Leeds, teams that are not even up there challenging."

Leeds failed to capitalise on both West Brom and Fulham dropping points at the weekend, and have slipped down to second after their defeat in South Wales.

The Verdict

It is hugely worrying for Leeds that they don't have anyone to fall back on should Patrick Bamford pick up an injury.

Tyler Roberts could arguably be used there, but he's more of an attacking midfielder now and they need someone who can score goals on a regular basis.

Leeds have to strengthen their attacking options this summer, 100%.