Manager Ruben Amorim contends that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual back three formation with wing-backs and chose to field an orthodox back four with two central 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 victory - securing just their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once memorably stated that even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to utilize varied setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would look as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I understood perhaps I don't have the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"The goal was to build an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever you criticize altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a better side because when all the personnel return, we are not going to use three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Persist
Having just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable 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 miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"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 constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
