The moment is right to alter Manchester United's system - Amorim insists.

Boss Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "the finish" for him.

For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox back four with two defensive midfielders.

By his own admission this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.

Despite he once notably stated that not even the Pope could compel him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied setups has consistently been part of his strategy.

However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside criticism.

"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I don't have the personnel to excel in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.

"Our aim was to forge an identity. Now is a distinct time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adapt, so they understand why we are making changes.

"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.

"Whenever the press talk about changing the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.

"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the moment to evolve.

"This will help us grow into a more complete squad because when all the players are available, we are not intending to play with three defenders exclusively."

Injury Issues Persist

With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been playing well.

He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.

That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.

"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."

The Captain's Role Endures

However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering input.

"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.

"He has negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.

"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."

Return Schedule for Key Players

Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.