Now is right to change Man Utd's formation - Ruben Amorim states.

Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to public noise would have signaled "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual back three formation with wing-backs and chose to deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.

He himself conceded this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his squad held on for a win - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.

Despite he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the option to utilize varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.

Yet, he stresses he could only make the switch when his team were performing sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external criticism.

"When I came here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a project," he commented.

"The goal was to forge an style. Currently is a separate time. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.

"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the supporters.

"Whenever media criticize altering the system all the time, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.

"When we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to change.

"This will help us become a better team because when all the players are back, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."

Squad Challenges Persist

Having only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.

He is, however, operating with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.

"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."

Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering

However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering insight.

"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.

"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.

"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."

Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel

Although the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.