Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wing-backs and chose to field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a back six in the final minutes as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
While he once memorably said that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the option to experiment with different formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were performing sufficiently well - otherwise it would seem as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to forge an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever you criticize altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the moment to adapt.
"We will grow into a more complete team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to play with a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Loom Large
Having only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. 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 Key Players
Although the precise date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
