Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's formation due to public noise would have been "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and chose to field an traditional back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a back six in the latter stages as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the season.
While he once memorably said that not even the Pope could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim maintains the option to utilize different formations has remained part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I didn't possess the players to excel in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Today is a distinct juncture. We lack a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they understand the reason we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you criticize altering the system all the time, I can't change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a better side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to play with three defenders exclusively."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
