Chris Kamara says Leeds United's agonising loss to Derby County in last season's play-off semi final "might have been a blessing in disguise".
Last season's impressive campaign was brought to an abrupt end when Leeds suffered a shock defeat to Frank Lampard's side at Elland Road in May, but Kamara believes the Whites can win long-awaited promotion to the Premiership this season.
"I think Leeds are well equipped this time around to jump into that Premier League," said the former Leeds midfielder and Soccer Saturday pundit.
"I think Leeds are in fine fettle, but I think they might need to sign a striker in January just to make sure.
'That might have been a blessing in disguise'
"Just looking at the league, looking at the table, Leeds and West Brom look to be the two outstanding teams of the season so far, but it's a long way to go.
"The Championship is a very difficult league, the hardest league in the world. It really is.
"When I look at what happened last season and they way they threw the game away against Derby County, that might have been a blessing in disguise - just one more year of getting to know each other and getting stronger.
"Keeping Marcelo Bielsa was a mega thing as well."
Leeds are currently third in the table, just two points behind league leaders West Brom.
Kamara spoke about his old club and during a recent interview with LeedsLive.
The 61-year-old has released a 10-track album called Here's to Christmas, which features covers of famous festive songs such as Jingle Bells, Santa Baby and Frosty the Snowman.
Visit our dedicated Leeds United page for the latest news, views and analysis from Elland Road.
