Boss Ruben Amorim says that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to use an standard back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once memorably remarked that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the beginning of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the fans.
"When the press talk about altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a better side because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to use a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Continue
Having just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
