Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's formation due to external scrutiny would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and opted to deploy an standard back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his team held on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably remarked that even the Pope could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with alternative formations has always been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were performing sufficiently well - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I came here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the players to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Today is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to be flexible, so they see the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"When media criticize changing the formation all the time, I can't change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to let him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
