Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead field an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his squad held on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the capacity to play with different setups has remained part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to build an style. Now is a different time. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize altering the formation all the time, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our system, that is the moment to change.
"We will develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not intending to employ a back three all the time."
Injury Crisis Persist
With only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a depleted roster, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the exact timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
