Now is optimal to change Man Utd's system - the manager insists.

Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have been "his demise" for him.

Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.

He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his squad dug in for a win - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.

Despite he once notably stated that even the Pope could force him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to experiment with alternative setups has always been part of his plan.

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

"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he stated.

"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need adapt, so they understand the reason we are making changes.

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

"Whenever the press talk about altering the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.

"When we are playing well in our system, that is the moment to evolve.

"We will develop into a stronger side because when our full complement of players return, we are not planning to play with three defenders all the time."

Availability Challenges Continue

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

He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.

That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.

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

The Captain's Role Endures

However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.

Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing input.

"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.

"He has negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.

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

Return Schedule for Injured Personnel

Although the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.