Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once notably remarked that even the Pope could force him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize alternative setups has remained part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Today is a distinct time. We lack a lot of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"When the press criticize altering the system constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to adapt.
"This will help us become a stronger side because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to use three defenders in every match."
Injury Crisis Persist
Having only two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. 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 wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.