Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wing-backs and instead field an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
By his own admission this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with alternative formations has remained part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the squad to excel in that formation, but it was the beginning of a process," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a separate juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever media discuss altering the formation all the time, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not intending to use three defenders in every match."
Squad Crisis Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the precise date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
