Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously stated that even the Pope could force him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the option to utilize different setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were doing well enough - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Now is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever media criticize changing the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players are back, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Persist
With only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, 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 captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the exact timeline for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
