Now is optimal to change Manchester United's tactical setup - the manager states.

Manager Ruben Amorim contends that altering Manchester United's formation due to external pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary back three formation with wide defenders and chose to use an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.

Amorim acknowledged this effectively became a back six in the final phase as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.

Although he once notably said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the capacity to play with varied setups has always been part of his strategy.

Yet, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were faring well enough - or else it would seem as if he was giving in to external noise.

"When I came here last season, I realized perhaps I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he stated.

"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Currently is a different moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.

"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.

"When media criticize altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the manager.

"Once we are playing well in our system, then is the opportunity to evolve.

"We are going to become a better team because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to play with three defenders all the time."

Injury Issues Continue

With only two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.

He is, however, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to return after his muscle problem.

"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."

The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering

Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering insight.

"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.

"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.

"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."

Return Schedule for Injured Players

While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.