Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to field an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once notably stated that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
However, he stresses he could only implement the change when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the squad to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we have to be flexible, so they see why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"When media criticize changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not planning to play with a back three exclusively."
Injury Crisis Persist
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to say his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
