Time is ripe to change Man Utd's system - Ruben Amorim states.

Boss Ruben Amorim contends that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have been "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to deploy an standard back four with two central midfielders.

By his own admission this ultimately became a back six in the latter phase as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.

Although he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.

Yet, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were performing well enough - lest it would look as if he was bowing to outside noise.

"At the time I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the squad to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.

"Our aim was to build an identity. Now is a distinct moment. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.

"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.

"When the press criticize altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the coach.

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

"We are going to develop into a stronger side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to employ a back three all the time."

Squad Issues Continue

With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.

He is, though, operating with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.

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

Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring injury.

"Bruno is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."

Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering

However, the Portuguese star will likely still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim expects his captain to continue providing insight.

"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.

"He has bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.

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

Return Timeline for Injured Players

While the specific timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.