Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have signaled "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a back six in the latter stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once famously said that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with varied setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were performing sufficiently well - lest it would seem as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a project," he stated.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Now is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"When media talk about altering the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the right time to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Persist
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue providing input.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
