Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and chose to use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side held on for a win - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with alternative setups has remained part of his strategy.
However, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - lest it would look as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the squad to play well in a back three, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Currently is a distinct time. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they see the reason we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the system constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that is the right time to evolve.
"We will grow into a better team because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to play with three defenders exclusively."
Injury Issues Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
