HE WON'T RU-BEND THE KNEE

IN A season of unprecedented turmoil for Manchester United on and off the pitch, Ruben Amorim's strong sense of conviction has shone through.

- DAVID MCDONNELL

The Portuguese head coach, thrust into the job part way through the campaign, has refused to compromise on his principles and high standards.

From jettisoning former golden boy Marcus Rashford to sticking with his three-at-the-back system, Amorim is as stubborn and dogmatic as they come.

That trait was on display at United's training ground yesterday when Amorim was asked about former captain Roy Keane's brutal criticism of the current holder of the armband, Bruno Fernandes.

Keane (inset) went on a furious rant, branding Fernandes and his United team-mates "imposters" and "bluffers" and claiming the 30-year-old playmaker does not possess the qualities to lead the team.

"I have a different opinion," said Amorim. "Bruno is really important for us in the club, especially for me.