Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to public scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to use an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his squad clung on for a win - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize varied setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were doing well enough - lest it would seem as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I didn't possess the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We lack a lot of players, and we must be flexible, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press talk about changing the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are playing well in our system, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"We are going to grow into a stronger side because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Continue
With only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
Although the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
