Ruben Amorim demands senior leaders 'step up' as Man Utd prepare for Newcastle test

United are without captain Bruno Fernandes, ruled out through injury.

Fernandes was withdrawn at half-time during United's recent defeat at Aston Villa after picking up a muscle problem. 

Speaking ahead of today's match, Amorim confirmed the midfielder would be unavailable and admitted his absence would be felt.

"I'm confident we can win any game," Amorim said. "Of course, we have some problems, but we need to believe in the team, even without many players at this moment. I believe in the team and I believe we can win any game."

The United head coach accepted Fernandes cannot be replaced directly but challenged others to respond. "It's more difficult, but I trust my players," Amorim said. "If we are really focused, we can win. I think it's impossible to replace Bruno, but I said to the team that a lot of people need to step up."

Amorim stressed that Fernandes' influence goes far beyond creativity. "It's not just the creation," he said. "It's every set-piece, the organisation. Sometimes he is organising the team. We rely on Bruno in the organisation and in the creation, and we cannot rely on one player for everything."

He pointed to experienced defenders Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw as players who must now show leadership. "That is a very good opportunity for guys like Licha and Luke Shaw," Amorim said. "All these guys need to step up. We need to have more leaders in the group."

United's injury problems have also led to opportunities for younger players. Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey made their senior debuts against Aston Villa, and Amorim praised their mentality. "They are good kids," he said. "They are really focused, they are preparing the game and they believe they can play, which is a good feeling."

United go into today's match against Newcastle sitting seventh in the Premier League on 26 points. Despite missing key players, Amorim remained firm in his message ahead of kick-off at Old Trafford. "We have problems," he said, "but I trust my players and I believe in this team."