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United's manager Ruben Amorim believes it's crucial the investor openly discussed his long-term thoughts - but says nothing is certain about tomorrow in football, let alone three years.

Through a conversation with The Times in recent days, Ratcliffe mentioned it may need Amorim three years to make a significant impact at the Theatre of Dreams.

Coming in a period when the manager's position has been under scrutiny following an extended sequence of unsatisfactory outcomes, the statements assisted in calming certain present tensions.

But, speaking before the hundredth encounter with historic adversaries the Merseyside club at Anfield, the manager underscored that what comes next is challenging to anticipate in soccer.

"It is really good to hear it but he informs me constantly, occasionally through communication post fixtures - but you know, I'm aware and the co-owner recognizes, that football is not like that," he said.

"The most important thing is the next game. Regardless of investors, you cannot manage the next day in football."

Chief executive Berrada has admitted it has taken much more time for Amorim to adjust to the English top flight after his transfer from his former club in November than any person expected.

The Red Devils have secured 10 successes in 34 league games during Amorim's tenure. They still haven't achieved back-to-back league wins and didn't complete a matchday in the current term better than ninth place.

The concerning numbers are challenging confidence in the head coach among the United fanbase approaching a run of games the side has performed poorly in for the past two seasons.

Amorim said he isn't experiencing the doubt internally at the club's Carrington training ground and is adamant nothing can match the pressure he places on his players - and in certain ways, he would rather Sir Jim not to be trying to bring a sense of calm because he fears the influence it may create on the squad.

"It's not only a thing that people talk about, I feel it each day," he stated. "It's really good to receive it because it assists our supporters to grasp the leadership realize it needs some time.

"But at the same moment, I'm not fond of it because it generates a sense that we own time to work things out. I don't want that sense in our team.

"The stress I put on the squad or on myself is significantly greater [versus outside influences]. In the sport, especially in big clubs, you have to show your value every weekend."

Connected themes

• Manchester United
• English top flight
• The beautiful game