Manager Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's formation due to public noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his squad held on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably said that not even the highest authority could force him to tweak his approach, Amorim insists the option to experiment with alternative formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an style. Currently is a distinct moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand why we are changing.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you talk about changing the formation repeatedly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our system, that is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a better squad because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to employ a back three in every match."
Availability Issues Loom Large
Having just two wins 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 injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing input.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
