'That is the reality' - Ruben Amorim responds to Manchester United sack suggestion

Ruben Amorim admits he is well aware of the 'danger' he is in if Manchester United do not see an immediate improvement in results under him. The Portuguese head coach was identified as the top candidate to replace former manager Erik ten Hag, with his proven track record, clear tactical approach and youthfulness all contributing factors to why he was given the job.

It has already been clear to see the style of football Amorim wants his side to play, though his hands have been tied by a poor playing squad, limited finances and the inconvenience of arriving at the club during a season. Another key issue has been the packed fixture schedule, that has seen United play two matches in a week throughout his reign, limiting their time together on the training ground.

The results don't lie though. United have lost five of their opening 10 matches under the new head coach, their worst start to life under a new manager since Walter Crickmer lost six of his first 10 back in January 1932.

Ineos displayed a ruthless streak at Old Trafford when Dan Ashworth was dismissed as sporting director after just five months in the role. He, like Amorim, was identified as the top candidate for the role he occupied for only a brief period of time. There is currently no suggestion Amorim's position as head coach is under any threat, though he admits he is well aware of the pressure he is under.

"The manager of Manchester United can never, no matter what, be comfortable, and I know I know the reason that I'm that I’m in," he told reporters after defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day. "I know that if we don't win, regardless, if they pay the buyout [for me] or not, I know that every manager is in danger and I like that I like that because that is the job, so I understand the question. You can argue that I have been here one month and I’ve had four training [sessions], but we are not winning. That is the reality and I'm quite comfortable with that."

In an ideal world, Amorim would have joined at the end of the current campaign rather than during it, to allow him proper time to work his players and implement his tactical ideas properly. Asked if part of the reason he wanted to take charge next summer was because he was worried of a poor start with this group of players, he added: "There’s no point talking about that or thinking about that.

"I’m here and have to focus on the job. It’s part of football to have these difficult moments. I already knew that was going to be tough. You expect to win more games, to have players with more confidence to sell the idea and to work and improve things. At this moment it's really hard. We have to survive to have time and then to improve the team.”