'I am sorry' - Ruben Amorim issues another apology to Man Utd fans in incredibly brief 95-word programme notes ahead of crucial Burnley clash

United were dumped out of the Carabao Cup in one of the most humiliating defeats in the club’s proud history. Against fourth-tier Grimsby Town, Amorim’s men had to claw back from 2-0 down just to force penalties. And when the shootout came, they stumbled and staggered their way to a farcical 12-11 defeat.

The cup exit merely piled misery on top of what has already been a nightmare league campaign. Last season’s 15th-place finish was the lowest in the club’s Premier League history. Supporters had hoped for an upturn under Amorim, but they’ve been greeted instead by more misery. This season started with a limp 1-0 defeat at home to Arsenal, followed by a scrappy 1-1 draw away at Fulham. Two games, one point, and no sign of progress.

In his stunted message, Amorim told fans: “Good afternoon and welcome back to Old Trafford. Today, as we welcome Scott Parker and his Burnley side, we need to give a response after Wednesday night’s cup fixture. I can only say to our supporters that I am sorry. The better team on the night won the game and both what we showed, everybody has to do better. Today, we have to show intensity from the start. We need to go out onto the pitch and show how we are capable of playing, because the only way we fix this is by winning games."

The international break is now shaping up to be a crucial moment. Amorim is expected to sit down with United chiefs to thrash out the direction of the club. Insiders at Old Trafford have been quick to confirm that there are no immediate plans to sack the Portuguese coach. But another defeat to Burnley would push their patience to breaking point.