Amorim named Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw as two of the senior players who could step up, although it was Fernandes’ fellow Portugal international Diogo Dalot who took the captain’s armband at Villa Park.
After waiting all season for his chance, it is unfortunate for Mainoo that he is not able to step into Fernandes’ shoes on the pitch, although Amorim says he expects the England international to return first.
With defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire still out and Noussair Mazraoui completing United’s trio of Afcon representatives, Amorim will be without seven senior players against Newcastle – with only Casemiro returning after a one-match ban.
It is likely to mean more minutes for academy pair Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey, who both made their senior debuts in the second half against Villa.
After repeatedly failing to take opportunities to push into the Champions League places, Amorim must now deliver results with a significantly weakened squad against opponents his side should beat given, after Newcastle, their next opponents are Wolves, Leeds and Burnley, who are all battling relegation.
The former Sporting coach remains bullish about their chances.
“I am confident we can win any game,” he said. “Of course, we have some problems but even without many players in this moment in time I believe in the team and trust in my players. If we are really focused, we can win.”
