Gary Neville labeled Manchester United 'the worst pound-for-pound football club in the country' as Ruben Amorim's sorry side were mauled by Newcastle at Old Trafford.
United's 2-0 defeat was Amorin's fifth defeat in six league games, with the 'embarrassed' head coach admitting afterwards that they are in a relegation battle.
“Manchester United's confidence has been damaged,” Neville told Sky Sports. 'Newcastle hammering Manchester United. You're looking at the worst pound-for-pound football club in the country, that's how bad they are.'
United have lost six games in December – the most in a single month since September 1930 – and are now just seven points above the relegation zone.
Asked if they are now in the fight to stay in the Premier League, Amorim said: “That is very clear, so we have to fight. It is one of the most difficult moments in Manchester United's history and we must deal with it honestly. We have to focus on survival.
'It's a bit embarrassing to be coach of Manchester United and lose a lot of games. I think our club needs a shock and we have to understand that.'
Amorim responded to United falling behind to goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton by replacing Joshua Zirkzee in the 33rd minute, a decision that was greeted with cheers at Old Trafford.
Neville added: “I actually feel sorry for him. I know he's making a lot of money here, but there's a human being in there who is actually being laughed at by his own fans and that's cruel.
'I haven't seen it much at Old Trafford in the 43 years I've been coming here, if at all.'
Amorim explained: “You have to think about the team, and sometimes the player too, as the player suffered. It was a very difficult moment, but he is human and felt the support of fans.'
After seeing his Newcastle side rise to fifth place, manager Eddie Howe said: “We know the pain this match has historically had on us, so psychologically this was a big step forward for us.”
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