The moment is optimal to alter Manchester United's system - Ruben Amorim states.

Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.

Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual back three formation with wide defenders and instead field an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.

By his own admission this effectively functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.

Although he once memorably said that even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied setups has remained part of his strategy.

Yet, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.

"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.

"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Currently is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.

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

"Whenever you talk about altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the manager.

"When we are performing strongly in our system, that is the moment to change.

"We will grow into a better team because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."

Injury Challenges Persist

With only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.

He is, however, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.

That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.

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

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

Fernandes' Leadership Endures

However, the 31-year-old will probably still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing input.

"The guy is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.

"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.

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

Return Timeline for Key Personnel

Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.