United finished 15th in the Premier League and were unable to salvage a place in Europe's elite tournament by winning the Europa League although the coach believes it could serve as a blessing in disguise for the team as they will have more time to get ready for matches next season.

Amorim said: "I have to say that for us not to be in the Champions League could be an advantage to perform well, to perform better, to prepare better [for] the games.

"To build that core that we need for the future so I think it's a good thing for us to take advantage not to have European games."

The United boss has thrown his support behind captain Bruno Fernandes, who cast doubt on his future at Old Trafford following the defeat to Tottenham in the European showpiece last week.

He said: "We had some difficult moments [this season]. In [those] difficult moments you can see that Bruno is the guy that takes that responsibility.

"It should be, because he's the captain, he has that experience so he's really important for us and really important for what we want to build with this team."

Amorim has promised to turn United's fortunes around following a "disaster season" that saw them record their worst-ever Premier League finish.

Addressing supporters after the team ended the campaign with a win over Aston Villa at the weekend, he said: "I want to apologise for this season. I know you are really disappointed with me and with the team.

"The second thing I want to say is thank you. We are very grateful for your support during the season and I know that was really hard.

"I know it was really hard to support us in many games but now we have to make a choice or we stay stuck in the past – because this season is in the past, it’s over.

"We fight each other, or we stick together and move forward.

"Six months ago, in my first three games in charge, with two victories and one draw, I said to you, ‘The storm is coming.'

"Today, after this disaster season, I want to tell you the good days are coming."