Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have meant "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary back three setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his squad dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once notably said that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the players to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a full complement of players, and we have to adapt, so they understand the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press discuss altering the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the manager.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"We will develop into a stronger side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders exclusively."
Availability Crisis Continue
Having just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
