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.

At the end of their two-hour slugfest with Arsenal, Man United had a full back at centre back, a midfielder at wing back and a centre back up front.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has challenged his squad to show more consistency in their forthcoming fixtures.