Boss Ruben Amorim says that switching Man Utd's formation due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
While he once notably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to establish an philosophy. Today is a separate juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to be flexible, so they understand why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When the press discuss changing the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to use three defenders in every match."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
Having only two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno 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 Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players 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 anticipates his captain to continue offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects 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."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
