Time is optimal to change Manchester United's system - Ruben Amorim states.

Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have signaled "the finish" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.

By his own admission this at times functioned as a back six in the final minutes as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.

Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could compel him to change his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize different setups has always been part of his long-term vision.

However, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to outside noise.

"At the time I came here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the squad to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.

"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they understand the reason we are making changes.

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

"When you talk about changing the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.

"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that becomes the moment to change.

"We are going to develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players are available, we are not going to play with a back three in every match."

Squad Issues Persist

Having just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.

He is, though, managing with a depleted squad, with seven first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.

That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.

"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."

The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering

However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering insight.

"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.

"He has bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.

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

Return Schedule for Key Personnel

While the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.