Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wide defenders and instead use an standard back four with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his squad clung on for a win - securing only their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to utilize alternative formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would look as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I don't have the squad to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a distinct time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"When you discuss altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger side because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to use three defenders in every match."
Availability Challenges Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably still be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Players
Although the specific date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
