Even in the wake of a bitterly disappointing 5-2 defeat at the hands of Brentford on Saturday, Marsch was buoyed by the fact that his matchday squad is getting stronger thanks to the returns from injury of Liam Cooper, Luke Ayling and Patrick Bamford. Junior Firpo is also closing in on a comeback from the setback he suffered right at the start of the pre-season friendly programme.
"I said last week that I liked our team, and that that doesn't change,” said Marsch.
"In fact, we're we're getting healthier and we're gonna get some key guys back. And I think it will bolster what we're accomplishing with our team. So you know, we, even when we beat Chelsea there, there was a lot of fanfare around how we were doing things, but internally, we knew we still had a lot to do and I certainly knew we had a lot to still do and that this league is very difficult. So we will we will continue in that way but again, I like our group a lot.”
A bigger, healthier squad means more competition and Marsch has that in a number of positions now. It also means tough decisions, with returning players staking a claim at centre-back and right-back particularly.
Here’s the YEP verdict on the strongest team he could pick for an important home game against the newly promoted Reds, showing three changes from the XI that took on Brentford on Saturday.
7. Tyler Adams
A player who hit the ground running in the Premier League, quickly banishing any lingering laments over Leeds' decision to opt for him instead of Mohamed Camara. Has added grit to the midfield, presses relentlessly and plays simple football. A new fan favourite. Photo: Michael Regan
8. Luis Sinisterra
The Colombian is scoring goals even as he's still getting up to speed in the Premier League. Not yet capable of playing 90 minutes at the required intensity but starting to exhibit the ability that led Leeds to shell out £25m for him. Pic: Getty Photo: George Wood
9. Brenden Aaronson
A livewire who has caused problems off the ball and with it at his feet. Has shown a knack of getting into space, turning and driving at teams. Leeds need to get him on the ball more often than they did at Brentford and closer to the area. Photo: Michael Regan
10. Jack Harrison
The winger came off against Brentford but only because Marsch didn't feel he was fresh. The gap to the Forest game will allow him to recover and go again, in search of another performance like some of those that have given him such a good start to the season. Photo: Michael Regan
11. Patrick Bamford
Played 15 minutes against Everton, 45 against Brentford and logic dictates that an hour should follow against Forest, at least. Made a difference to Leeds' attack in the last two games, offering something different to Joe Gelhardt. Will be aching to play against his boyhood team, too. Photo: Marc Atkins