Manager Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to external pressure would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead use an standard back four with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
While he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the ability to play with alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, 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 giving in to outside pressure.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I lacked the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever you talk about altering the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not intending to employ three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Continue
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the exact timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
