Jesse Marsch insists Leeds United have focused on ‘ironing out’ their problems during the two-week break in fixtures. Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace meant the Whites had an extra week to prepare for Monday night’s clash.
Ironically, Leeds' first game back sees them travel to Palace looking to capitalise on a good showing against Watford last time out. A rare clean sheet was a blessing for Marsch as the Whites, until Norwich’s 3-0 loss to Newcastle yesterday, had the worst defensive record in the league.
Leeds supporters have enjoyed what the American has served up so far, with three wins from their last four outings keeping the club hovering above the relegation zone. Marsh praised the players in his pre-match press conference.
"I think we’ve come a long way in seven or eight weeks,” he said. “Now, it’s about pushing them to become even more concentrated and clearer with everything we’re doing on the pitch.
“From a mentality and motivation and inspiration perspective, this is a fantastic group to work with. I never have any questions about where their hearts and minds are.”
The 48-year-old hailed his side's defensive reliance at Watford - a trait Leeds have struggled to showcase this season. He added: “I thought the defensive performance at Watford was very good. There were things we felt we could’ve done better with the ball and build-up phases and in the last third.
“We’re continuing to try and push them with the intensity of winning balls, of counter-pressing, of limiting the opponent in transition moments and still trying to be creative and have poise in the last third of the pitch so that we can create more chances and more goals."
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