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

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

For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wing-backs and instead use an standard four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.

Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his side clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.

While he once notably said that even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim asserts the option to play with varied formations has always been part of his strategy.

Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to external noise.

"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.

"The goal was to build an philosophy. Currently is a separate moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are changing.

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

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

"When we are performing strongly in our system, that becomes the right time to change.

"We are going to grow into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not going to employ a back three all the time."

Squad Issues Loom Large

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

He is, though, operating with a depleted roster, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.

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

Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return following his hamstring problem.

"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed 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 Is Unwavering

Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing insight.

"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.

"He has flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.

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

Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel

Although the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.