Time is ripe to switch Man Utd's formation - Ruben Amorim states.

Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "his demise" for him.

Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox four-man defense with two defensive midfielders.

He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the final phase as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.

Although he once memorably remarked that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.

Yet, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were doing sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.

"When I arrived here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.

"We were trying to establish an identity. Currently is a separate juncture. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.

"The change isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the faithful.

"When the press talk about changing the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the end for the manager.

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

"We are going to become a better side because when all the personnel return, we are not planning to play with three defenders exclusively."

Injury Crisis Continue

With only two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been playing well.

He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That figure will grow if midfielder 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 miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return following his hamstring problem.

"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."

Fernandes' Role Endures

Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing insight.

"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.

"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. After he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.

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

Return Timeline for Key Personnel

Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other 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 duty.