Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his side clung on for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously remarked that even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a separate juncture. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the demands of the media, or the faithful.
"When you discuss altering the formation all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, then is the moment to change.
"This will help us grow into a better team because when all the players return, we are not going to employ three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Persist
With just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things 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 Timeline for Injured Players
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
