Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Man Utd's formation due to external pressure would have meant "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a back six in the final stages as his squad dug in for a win - securing only their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once notably said that even the highest authority could force him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize varied formations has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"The goal was to establish an style. Today is a different juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we need adapt, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the demands of the media, or the supporters.
"When media discuss altering the system constantly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when all the players are available, we are not going to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Issues Continue
Having only two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
However, the Portuguese star will likely still be deeply engaged, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
