Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual back three formation with wide defenders and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his squad dug in for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize alternative formations has remained part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Today is a distinct time. We lack a full complement of players, and we have to be flexible, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you discuss changing the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a more complete team because when all the personnel are back, we are not going to play with three defenders exclusively."
Availability Challenges Persist
Having only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Endures
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
Although the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars 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.
