I cannot rely on a three-year period at Manchester United - Ruben Amorim

The Red Devils' boss Ruben Amorim thinks it is important the co-owner went public with his long-term thoughts - but notes nothing is assured about the future in the sport, much less three full years.

Through a conversation with The Times last week, Ratcliffe said it could take Amorim three seasons to make a significant impact at United's home ground.

Coming in a period when the manager's position has been receiving close inspection in the wake of a lengthy stretch of unsatisfactory outcomes, the statements assisted in calming a portion of the current stress.

Yet, discussing prior to the hundredth encounter with traditional foes Liverpool at their home ground, Amorim underscored that tomorrow is difficult to forecast in the beautiful game.

"It's truly positive to hear it but he informs me continuously, sometimes with a message post fixtures - but recognize, I'm aware and Jim knows, that soccer doesn't work that way," he said.

"The vital factor is the following fixture. Despite having backers, you cannot dictate the next day in football."

Top executive the club executive has acknowledged it has needed far longer for Amorim to adjust to the English top flight following his move from Sporting in November than anyone imagined.

Manchester United have achieved 10 victories in 34 Premier League matches with the Portuguese coach. They still haven't achieved back-to-back league wins and have not ended a matchday this season higher than ninth.

The concerning numbers are testing faith in Amorim among the United fanbase entering a stretch of fixtures the side has performed poorly in for the last couple of years.

The manager stated he isn't experiencing the uncertainty internally at their training facility and is firm nothing can match the expectation he places on the team - and to some extent, he would prefer Ratcliffe to refrain from seeking to bring a sense of calm because he is concerned about the influence it may create on the squad.

"It's not only a thing that people talk about, I experience it daily," he remarked. "It's truly positive to listen to it because it helps our fans to comprehend the administration understand it will require some time.

"Yet concurrently, I'm not fond of it because it generates a sense that we have time to work things out. I don't desire that sense in our team.

"The expectation I place on the squad or on myself is considerably larger [versus outside influences]. In football, particularly at major teams, you need to prove yourself every matchday."

Associated subjects

• Manchester United
• Premier League
• Football