Ally McCoist reckons boss Ruben Amorim “wouldn’t know” if this Manchester United side is the worst in the club’s history.

And the Rangers hero reckons that the only reason he made the bold statement is to remind the punters of the work that needs done. It has been a disastrous campaign for United as Brighton condemned them to their 10th defeat from 22 Premier League games on Sunday afternoon and their sixth home league defeat this season – the most from their opening 12 home matches since way back in 1893/94.

The Portuguese boss came out after the game and claimed the current crop of talent is the worst ever United side as they face the prospect of a Premier League relegation scrap. And with pressure piling up on the former Sporting boss before he faces off against Rangers in the Europa League on Thursday, McCoist was asked by Jeff Stelling if the post-match jab was “self protection” from the under-fire boss.

He responded on the talkSPORT Breakfast Show: “Self protection? I don’t think so. He is effectively stating the obvious that everyone can see. It’s just a reminder to Manchester United fans the task that he has. I think that is what it is, because I don’t know if it is (the worst ever team).

Manchester United's head coach Ruben Amorim follows the game during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester United and Brighton and Hove Albion, at the Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025
Manchester United’s head coach Ruben Amorim follows the game during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester United and Brighton and Hove Albion, at the Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson) (Image: AP)

“We have had a couple of United boys on saying it’s not the worst team ever and I don’t think Ruben Amorim would know, with the greatest of respect to him. I think it’s to say this is what it is at this time – and that it’s not a quick fix at this time. He’s probably letting everyone know how long it’s going to take – a good few windows. I don’t think it’s self-protection, I think it’s just a wee reminder.

It could be a do or die clash for Amorim when Philippe Clement takes his side to Old Trafford – but McCoist reckons he should be given time to turn things around. He added: “I like him.

“I really enjoyed watching his previous team. Given time – which is the one thing manager’s don’t get – he will but he needs to get a better quality of player.”

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