The moment is optimal to alter Manchester United's tactical setup - Amorim states.

Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have been "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.

He himself conceded this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.

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

However, he stresses he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to outside criticism.

"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I don't have the players to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he stated.

"The goal was to forge an philosophy. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.

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

"When the press talk about altering the system constantly, I cannot change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I think that is the end for the coach.

"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to change.

"This will help us grow into a more complete team because when all the players return, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."

Availability Crisis Loom Large

With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been in good form.

He is, however, working with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.

That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.

"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."

The Captain's Leadership Endures

Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering input.

"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "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 sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects you don't see.

"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."

Return Schedule for Key Personnel

Although the specific timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.