Man Utd's players 'more confident' - Amorim

Manchester United's players are more able to match the physical demands made of them this season, according to head coach Ruben Amorim.

The former Sporting boss struggled to implement his style of play after he replaced Erik ten Hag last November, which was a major reason why United ended up in 15th, their worst league performance since the 1973-74 relegation campaign.

While the new season got off to a losing start at Old Trafford last weekend, Amorim felt there were clear signs a full pre-season has enabled him to get the work into his players to allow them to compete in the way he wants.

"It is a fact because you can see the data," he said.

"Against Arsenal, we were sometimes building up but we had to kick the ball. Then you can see the reaction of our players to the second ball. In the duels, we are stronger. We are recovering position faster.

"I remember at least two times in the corner, one time with Odegaard running with the ball and you can look at our players and we are sprinting full power - even Casemiro!"

United's players should gain greater benefit as the season goes on given they have no European football to distract them for only the second time since 1990.

Amorim knows he cannot promise positive results. But he does feel his players now fully understand what is required of them.

"When we are playing we are more confident," he said.

"I feel the team is more free playing the game. That is a good thing.

"When you have more time to train, you have more time to understand the way we play.

"You don't need to think all the time 'what do I do in these situations' because it's already in their minds."