LONDON - Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim said the English giants are in a battle for Premier League survival after Newcastle cruised to a 2-0 win at Old Trafford to inflict a fourth consecutive defeat on the hosts.
Just two months into his tenure, Amorim conceded this week that his job is on the line unless results begin to improve.
The Portuguese has won just two of his first eight league games to leave United languishing down in 14th, just seven points above the relegation zone.
"That is really clear, so we have to fight," said Amorim on United being dragged into a relegation battle.
"It is a really difficult moment, one of the more difficult moments in the history of Manchester United and we have to address it with honesty."
Alexander Isak and Joelinton struck inside the first 19 minutes as a fifth consecutive win lifted the Magpies into fifth.
Amorim stood aghast at what he was witnessing in the first half as Newcastle cut through the home side at will.
"They are a better team and they started very strong," added Amorim.
"When we suffer a goal it is really hard to turn around because of all the losses we had before and we don't have the base of work behind to cope with the difficult moments."
A daunting trip to runaway league leaders Liverpool awaits on Sunday before United travel to Arsenal in the FA Cup third round.