Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his team held on for a win - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the option to utilize different formations has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I don't have the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever media talk about altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our system, that becomes the opportunity to change.
"We are going to grow into a more complete side because when all the personnel are available, we are not planning to use three defenders all the time."
Squad Issues Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that led to his exit 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 understood to be pushing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
Although the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
