It really depends on personal preference, what tactics you want to use, and which hero you have.
And the map also matters.
At the beginning, I'll take Messengers, and then Banshees, because if you use their special ability on a group, it will be more effective than using the Messengers' special ability, even though they have higher stats.
Adding to the Banshees, they also consume less Dark Energy than Messengers;)
I choose:
1. Skeleton Archers (in difficult situations, 2nd upgrade, when few skeletons are available)
2. Definitely Rotting Zombie (stronger and will last longer)
3. Specters/Wraiths (depending on whether there are more mages or archers on the map)
4. Vampire Lord - forever (no contest)
5. Archlich/Master Lich (Liches, you can combine them, one Decay will deal damage, and the second will resurrect)
6. Banshees (for their special ability)
7. Astral Dragon (higher attack, special ability is sad)