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

United's manager Amorim thinks it is important Sir Jim Ratcliffe openly discussed his extended perspective - but states nothing is guaranteed about the next day in soccer, much less three full years.

Through a conversation with The Times recently, Ratcliffe mentioned it may need the head coach three seasons to produce meaningful results at the Theatre of Dreams.

Arriving during a time when Amorim's future has been under scrutiny after a prolonged run of disappointing results, the words contributed to reducing a portion of the current stress.

Yet, discussing prior to the 100th meeting with historic adversaries the Merseyside club at Anfield, Amorim stressed that the future is hard to predict in football.

"It's truly positive to receive that message but he communicates to me continuously, periodically with words following matches - but understand, I'm aware and Jim knows, that soccer doesn't work that way," he commented.

"The vital factor is the upcoming match. Even with owners, you cannot dictate the future in the sport."

Chief executive Berrada has admitted it has taken far longer for the head coach to adapt to the top division following his move from Sporting Lisbon last November than any person expected.

The Red Devils have secured 10 times in 34 league games with the Portuguese coach. They are yet to win consecutive league victories and didn't complete a round of league games during this campaign higher than ninth.

The worrying figures are stretching belief in the manager among the Old Trafford faithful entering a stretch of fixtures the side has performed poorly in for the previous two campaigns.

United's boss commented he isn't experiencing the doubt within the organization at the team's practice complex and is firm nothing equals the expectation he places on the team - and in some senses, he would choose Ratcliffe to avoid attempting to establish serenity because he fears the effect it might produce on the players.

"It's not only something people discuss, I sense it every day," he said. "It's certainly beneficial to hear it because it helps our fans to comprehend the administration know it is going to take some time.

"But at the same moment, I don't like it because it gives a feeling that we possess time to solve problems. I don't desire that sense in our club.

"The stress I put on the team or to myself is so much bigger [than that from outside]. In football, particularly at major teams, you have to show your worth each weekend."

Associated subjects

• Manchester United
• English top flight
• The beautiful game