I cannot count on a three-year period at United - the United boss

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim thinks it is important the investor openly discussed his long-term thoughts - but notes nothing is assured about the next day in soccer, let alone three years.

In an interview with a leading newspaper recently, Sir Jim mentioned it may need the head coach three seasons to produce meaningful results at Old Trafford.

Emerging in an era when the coach's tenure has been facing examination following an extended sequence of disappointing results, the statements assisted in calming some of the immediate pressure.

But, speaking before the centenary clash with traditional foes the Reds at Anfield, the manager stressed that tomorrow is difficult to forecast in the beautiful game.

"It's certainly beneficial to receive that message but he informs me constantly, occasionally through communication after games - but understand, I know and Ratcliffe understands, that soccer doesn't work that way," he commented.

"The vital factor is the upcoming match. Even with owners, you cannot manage the next day in football."

Top executive Omar Berrada has acknowledged it has needed significantly extended periods for Amorim to acclimate to the English top flight after his transfer from Sporting last November than any person expected.

United have won 10 successes in 34 league games during Amorim's tenure. They are yet to win back-to-back league wins and have not ended a matchday during this campaign better than ninth place.

The dire statistics are stretching belief in Amorim among the Old Trafford faithful heading into a stretch of fixtures their club has been awful in for the last couple of years.

Amorim said he isn't experiencing the instability within the organization at the club's Carrington training ground and is adamant nothing compares to the stress he puts on the team - and in some senses, he would prefer Ratcliffe not to be trying to establish serenity because he is concerned about the effect it might produce on the team.

"It's not only something people discuss, I sense it daily," he said. "It's truly positive to listen to it because it helps our fans to grasp the leadership understand it will require a while.

"Yet concurrently, I don't like it because it creates an impression that we have time to solve problems. I don't wish for that impression in our organization.

"The pressure I place on the team or on myself is so much bigger [compared to external sources]. In football, specifically at large organizations, you have to show your worth every matchday."

Associated subjects

• Man Utd
• Top division
• Football