Amorim one year on Renaissance of hope after all the lows

Manchester United executives insist manager is there for the long haul and, after a cup exit to Grimsby, the victory at Anfield could be his Mark Robins moment

- Rob Draper

The excitement of a new era at Manchester United was almost palpable, according to one observer.

The part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox were full of optimism. What owner isn't energised by making a coaching appointment, especially their first? It was a chance for Ratcliffe to put his imprint on United after years of drift under the Glazers.

The coach, who had regained the title at Sporting, had youthful vivacity, an admirable track record and emotional intelligence. Ruben Amorim, appointed a year ago tomorrow, was one of the most desired young coaches on the market, which is why Tottenham and Liverpool had also considered him.

United felt they had stolen a march yet even a year ago there was scepticism at their elation. "Sporting Lisbon had a great time under him and I'm not saying he wasn't part of their success but Benfica and Porto had their problems, it's an easy league and Sporting's title win was overhyped because of special circumstances," said one highly respected executive who has appointed a number of successful Premier League coaches. "Amorim left and Sporting still won the league last season. Maybe it was the players?"