Amorim Braced for Relegation Battle

United boss blames himself after unwanted record of 5 losses in first 8 league matches

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LONDON - Ruben Amorim called it "embarrassing" as a Manchester United manager to be discussing the threat of relegation, but after a miserable 2-0 English Premier League loss at home to Newcastle United on Dec 30, he conceded that is the reality his team are facing.

Alexander Isak and Joelinton headed early goals in the first 19 minutes to hand Amorim's team a fifth loss in their last six league games.

They have suffered a third consecutive home league defeat for the first time since 1979, adding to the list of sorry statistics that have marked United's decade of decline.

The Red Devils head into the new year 14th in the table, 13 points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea and just seven above 18th-placed Ipswich Town. It is their lowest position at the turn of a year in the league since 1989 (15th), when they eventually finished 13th.

"I think (a relegation fight) is a possibility and we have to be clear with our fans. We have to change something, but this season will be really hard on everybody. It can make us stronger and we have to fight," Amorim said.

"It's also my fault because I think the team is not improved, I think it is a little bit lost. So it's a little bit embarrassing as United coach and to lose a lot of games."