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.

United head coach Ruben Amorim often makes five substitutions and United ended the 120 minutes against Arsenal with Lisandro Martinez up front and midfielder Toby Collyer at right wing back in a 5-3-1 formation.

Ruben Amorim said he will learn more about his players when they face Southampton than during the performances against Liverpool and Arsenal.