Amorim would like United to build up with a genuine three at the back, rather than the four it has been when protection is the first priority. At Anfield, United took the lead because Martinez sensed a moment to press high, snapping into Mohamed Salah to win the ball and then stay up to receive Fernandes’ slipped pass.

Ruben Amorim believes the season will be a “rollercoaster” for Manchester United as he expects they will remain inconsistent, with lots of ups and downs. United came within 10 minutes of losing at home to bottom club Southampton on Thursday, before being rescued by Amad Diallo, who scored a late hat-trick.

Amorim did, however, admit he made a mistake in terms of his selection when putting the tired Ugarte up against Southampton’s energetic midfield. “Also, it is my fault because if you lose the timing of the pressure, if I don’t explain it well, the pressure is always lost in that, and you feel it today,” he added.