Ruben Amorim has admitted that his Manchester united side are “anxious and sometimes afraid” as they prepare for today’s showdown against Liverpool, but has vowed to help turn the clubs fortunes around.
The Red Devils head to Anfield in terrible form. They’ve lost their last four games in a row across all competitions – failing to score in their last three – and find themselves 14th in the Premier League table just seven points clear of the relegation zone.
To make matters worse, they face a Liverpool side that has won their last four games on the bounce with Mohamed Salah at the peak of his powers.
Furthermore, Arne Slot’s side have the incentive of knowing that a victory this afternoon will see them extend their lead at the top of the table to eight points – with a game in hand to boot – following Arsenal’s draw away at Brighton.
As a result, the Merseyside outfit will start the game as overwhelming favourites.
Speaking ahead of the game, Amorim delivered a refreshingly honest verdict of Man United’s fortunes in recent weeks as he made a rather stunning admission whilsy also revealing his surprise at hearing supporters chant his name during such a difficult period.
“They are anxious and sometimes afraid on the pitch,” he said. “We have to cope with that. We need the leaders to step up and to help the other guys – and I’m the most responsible person here to improve the performances.
“You can see the players are trying. Sometimes they are too anxious and too afraid to play football because this is a difficult moment.
“For two days we have just been doing the basics, focusing on our idea to play football, and doing our thing.
“The supporters are tired of this moment so it is strange to hear them chanting my name. I’m giving everything to help the club. I know it is hard to understand right now but we are going to succeed.”
Amorim can at least welcome back captain Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte for the trip to Anfield after the midfield pair missed the 2-0 loss at home to Newcastle United last time out through suspension.
But Marcus Rashford, who has been linked with an exit during the January transfer window, is expected to miss out due to illness.