Bruno Fernandes injury: Manchester United face up to a month without a captain

Amorim has named Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw as two of the senior players who could step up, although it is Fernandes’ fellow Portuguese international Diogo Dalot who has been given the captain’s armband at Villa Park.

After waiting for his chance all season, it is unfortunate for Maino that he is unable to replace Fernandes on the pitch, although Amorim says he expects the England international to return first.

With defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire still missing and Noussair Mazraoui completing United’s trio of AFCON representatives, Amorim will be without seven senior players against Newcastle – with only Casemiro returning after his one-match ban.

That is likely to mean more minutes for academy duo Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey, who made their debut in the second half against Villa.

Having repeatedly failed to convert chances to qualify for the Champions League, Amorim must now produce results with a significantly weakened line-up against opponents that his side must overcome, given that their next opponents, after Newcastle, are Wolverhampton, Leeds and Burnley, who are all battling relegation.

The former Sporting coach remains optimistic about their chances.

He added: “I am confident that we can win any match. “Of course, we have some problems, but even without many players at this moment, I believe in the team and I trust my players. If we really focus, we can win.”