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.

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.

Amad Diallo’s stunning 12-minute hat-trick rescued United from potential embarrassment against basement side Southampton.