'I agree with Jonny Evans starting!' - Darts sensation Luke Littler reveals first impressions of new Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim and reveals end-of-season expectation

Amorim's first match in charge began promisingly, with Marcus Rashford finding the back of the net just 81 seconds in, following brilliant work from Amad Diallo, who filled in admirably as a makeshift right wing-back. However, Ipswich responded with vigour, levelling the scores through Omari Hutchinson’s deflected strike just before half-time.

After the match, Amorim highlighted the team’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly Jonny Evans’ inability to close down Hutchinson effectively.

"If you see the first half, we were a little bit afraid. The No.5 [Sam Morsy] was always alone, we have to jump on him," Amorim said. "Hutchinson was always in the dead space, Jonny Evans should be pressing his guy, but when we don’t have the training and it’s hard to see say all the reactions to the players."

Littler, a United fan, was quick to defend Amorim's decisions, emphasising the limited preparation time the manager had with his new squad.

"It wasn't easy last night (against Ipswich)," he told Sky Sports. "But he's had two days with the squad. He's done his best to see who is fit and pick the right squad, which he did. I agree with Jonny Evans starting. A full week with the squad and I think he'll do a good job. But with two days, the least we could have got was zero points. But he's got a point. So I'll take a point."

When asked about his expectations for the season, Littler remained pragmatic: "I'd take fifth or sixth. If not I'll take fourth!"

Littler’s connection to United goes beyond fandom. Following his meteoric rise in the PDC World Championship last year, he was invited to Carrington to meet the first team. Earlier this year, he enjoyed a VIP experience at Old Trafford, witnessing a thrilling 2-2 draw against Tottenham and even meeting club legend Sir Alex Ferguson.

Amorim’s appointment comes during a tumultuous period for United as they find themselves languishing in the 12th spot in the Premier League table. Thursday’s Europa League clash against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt offers Amorim an opportunity to restore United’s standing as a force in European football after a lacklustre debut in the Premier League.