As the return of the Premier League looms ever closer, it's becoming more clear Jesse Marsch and Leeds United are really starting to get the hang of things this season.
The Whites have played some of their best football this season throughout the winter break and after beating two La Liga opponents, confidence within the squad is sky-high and will no doubt be taken into the match against Monaco on Wednesday feeling like they can remain undefeated.
While getting a result against reigning league champions Manchester City might be less of a pipe dream than what it was before the break, based on their previous results against the Citizens, not one Whites fan expects an easy task.
READ MORE: AS Monaco set to provide bit-part Leeds United man with latest audition to change Marsch's plans
READ MORE: Leeds United could take bold last experiment into Man City for Monaco visit
But while Monaco are the immediate hurdle standing in the way of Marsch and his side, players will be thinking about using the fixture as an opportunity to prove to the boss they belong in the first team going forward - which could start with a chance against Man City on December 28.
So here are three Leeds players that will want to prove themselves to the coaching staff on Wednesday night...
Cody Drameh
If there's one player who should be at least rewarded for his loyalty, it's Cody Drameh. After having the chance to leave Elland Road for more playing time in the summer, the 21-year-old has been given just appearance under Marsch this season - 70 minutes in the 5-2 defeat to Brentford back in September.
But after calls across social media for the youngster to start after his impressive season with the Under-21s in the Premier League 2 Division 2 so far, the boss might cave to the fans demand and at least give him 60 minutes to prove himself worthy of a place in the senior setup.
Adam Forshaw
Despite starting the previous two friendlies against Elche and Real Sociedad, Adam Forshaw hasn't looked up to scratch in his minutes throughout the winter break. After just 47 minutes of official action this season, Forshaw will want to be at his best on Wednesday if he wants a shot at facing City next week.
With Tyler Adams suspended having been sent off in the final minutes of the match against Tottenham Hotspur back in mid-November, Forshaw won't have a better chance than this to break into the senior squad after his numerous injury problems have held him back in the past.
Sam Greenwood
The 20-year-old was a vital part of Leeds' success in early November after his goal and assist off the bench against Bournemouth in the 4-3 win giving the Whites their first back-to-back wins of the season. However, during the winter break, he's not featured too much.
After just 45 second-half minutes against Real Sociedad, Greenwood will want to show Marsch that he's ready for his second league start of the season to try and carry that good form from before the break over into a performance against an incredibly-tough Manchester City team.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United transfer rumours as Whites 'remain in talks' to sign Cody Gakpo
Leeds United's risk v reward conundrum as coach's comments underline issue
Leeds United's scouting department may have a new darling based on latest glowing endorsement
Leeds United's transfer risk could not have paid off more after double-sale gamble
Leeds United could secure move for next Dusan Vlahovic after striker 'loses patience'
