Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and opted to use an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a back six in the final stages as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously said that not even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim maintains the option to play with varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I don't have the players to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the demands of the media, or the faithful.
"When the press talk about changing the formation all the time, I cannot change because the players will think I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the right time to evolve.
"We will develop into a better squad because when all the players are available, we are not going to play with a back three all the time."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
Having only two victories in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys 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 leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
