Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to use an orthodox back four with two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his side held on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once notably stated that even the Pope could compel him to change his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize varied setups has remained part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were performing well enough - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I lacked the squad to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a separate time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they see why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever you criticize altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to change.
"We will become a stronger squad because when all the personnel return, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Persist
Having just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
While the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
