And the positive is Amorim feels Garnacho is adapting to his system, that uses inside forwards rather than the wide attacking players, which the 20-year-old has previously been used as. "I think he changed the way he sees himself," said Amorim.

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.

Ruben Amorim has insisted Alejandro Garnacho has a long-term future at Manchester United despite interest from Napoli.