Ruben Amorim sacked as Manchester United manager – reaction

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Ruben Amorim had remained wedded to his preferred three-man defensive formation with wing-backs since his arrival at Manchester United.

But the Portuguese coach changed to a four-at-the-back system for the victory over Newcastle on Boxing Day, before reverting to a back three for subsequent games.

Reports had claimed Christopher Vivell, United’s head of recruitment, called on Amorim to adapt his system following a detailed breakdown by Fulham boss Marco Silva of his plan to counter it following the draw between the sides at Craven Cottage in August.

Amorim, who was named as ‘head coach’ when the club announced his arrival, said there had been disagreements with the club over transfer targets.

And his hints at growing tensions with director of football Jason Wilcox were only getting stronger with the start of the January transfer window.