Boss Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and opted to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his team dug in for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once notably said that even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize varied formations has always been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an identity. Today is a distinct time. We lack a full complement of players, and we must be flexible, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever media discuss altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our system, then is the right time to adapt.
"This will help us become a better squad because when all the players are back, we are not planning to use a back three in every match."
Availability Crisis Loom Large
Having only two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of 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 true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
Although the specific date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
