Now is right to change Manchester United's system - the manager insists.

Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's formation due to media noise would have signaled "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to use an standard back four with two central midfielders.

Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his side dug in for a victory - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.

While he once notably stated that even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to experiment with alternative formations has always been part of his strategy.

Yet, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside criticism.

"When I came here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the squad to play well in a back three, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.

"Our aim was to build an identity. Today is a separate moment. We lack a full complement of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.

"It is not because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.

"Whenever media criticize altering the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.

"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.

"This will help us become a stronger squad because when all the players are back, we are not intending to use three defenders all the time."

Injury Crisis Continue

Having only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been playing well.

He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted roster, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.

"Bruno is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."

The Captain's Influence Remains

Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim expects his captain to continue providing guidance.

"He is a leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.

"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.

"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."

Return Timeline for Injured Personnel

While the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars 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 international competition.