Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have been "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a back six in the latter phase as his side clung on for a victory - securing only their second clean sheet of the campaign.
While he once notably said that even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim maintains the option to utilize alternative formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Today is a different moment. We lack a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our system, then is the right time to change.
"We will become a better side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to use three defenders all the time."
Injury Challenges Persist
With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Endures
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing input.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the exact date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
