Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given beleaguered Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim a copy of the “Rough Guide to the EFL” as the spectre of relegation looms large around Old Trafford.

Following Monday night’s 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United, the Red Devils are perilously close to the drop-zone, with Amorim himself admitting to fans that relegation was “a possibility.”

Paddy Power News understands that Ratcliffe popped into Waterstones in the city centre on Tuesday morning, to buy a copy of the book that was last published in 2003.

A store assistant told us, “we’ve archived all the copies of this book – it took us two hours to find one in the stockroom.

“Even this edition is massively out of date. It has Manchester City playing in League One!”

“Though I guess that may come in handy in a few months’ time.”

A United insider told us that Amorim was locked away in his office at Carrington studying the club-by-club guide to get himself familiar with places such as Fratton Park, Ashton Gate and Deepdale in case the unthinkable happens.

A source close to the Portuguese tactician also revealed that:

“The gaffer has already had his scouts out and about at Championship clubs, so he is ready if United do drop into the second tier for the first time since 1974.”

He has also told the players to enjoy Sunday’s trip to Anfield, which could see United on the end of another hammering, as it may be their last league visit there for some time.

Ratcliffe, who recently angered United fan groups by getting rid of concession ticket prices at the Theatre of Dreams, is understood to be ready to offer disgruntled season-ticket holders an early bird discount if they renew their seats before the end of March.

“It’s a chance to secure your place at Old Trafford for next season without knowing what division we will be playing in” a club spokesperson told us.

“We know it’s a gamble, but you could be watching Premier League football at EFL prices if you’re willing to hedge your bets.”

Paddy Power News also understands that should United drop into the Championship, Ratcliffe will ask the Football League to move all United home games to 12.30 kick-offs, to save money by not using the floodlights.

“This would free-up some cash to keep Rentokil on a retainer and possibly plug some holes in the roof,” we were told.

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