Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to deploy an orthodox back four with two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this at times transformed into a back six in the latter stages as his side held on for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the option to play with alternative setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I lacked the squad to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to build an style. Today is a different time. We lack a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"When the press talk about altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Availability Challenges Persist
With just two victories in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still 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 tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering input.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. After he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
