Time is right to change Manchester United's formation - Ruben Amorim insists.

Manager Ruben Amorim contends that altering Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have been "the finish" for him.

In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and chose to field an standard back four shielded by two holding midfielders.

He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the latter stages as his side clung on for a win - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.

While he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the capacity to utilize different setups has always been part of his strategy.

Yet, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were doing well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.

"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he stated.

"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We lack a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.

"The change isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the faithful.

"When media discuss altering the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.

"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to adapt.

"We are going to become a better side because when all the personnel are available, we are not intending to use three defenders all the time."

Availability Challenges Persist

With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.

He is, however, managing with a depleted squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That figure will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.

"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can write that."

Fernandes' Influence Endures

However, the Portuguese star will likely still be a prominent presence, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim is sure his captain to continue offering insight.

"He is a natural 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 communicating. That's why he's the captain.

"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.

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

Recovery Timeline for Injured Players

Although the specific date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.