Time is right to switch Manchester United's tactical setup - the manager insists.

Head coach Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's formation due to media scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.

Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and chose to field an traditional four-man defense with two defensive midfielders.

By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.

Although he once notably said that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the option to play with different formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.

Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was succumbing to external pressure.

"When I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.

"The goal was to establish an style. Currently is a distinct time. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adjust, so they see why we are changing.

"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.

"Whenever you talk about changing the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the coach.

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

"This will help us become a stronger side because when all the personnel are available, we are not going to employ three defenders exclusively."

Squad Crisis Loom Large

Having only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.

He is, nonetheless, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return following his muscle injury.

"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."

Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering

Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be heavily involved, as while most injured stars view 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 anticipates his leader to continue offering insight.

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

"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.

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

Recovery Schedule for Key Players

Although the exact timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.