Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's formation due to public noise would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a back six in the final phase as his side dug in for a victory - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once famously stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with different setups has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would seem as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the players to play well in that system, but it was the start of a project," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct time. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we need adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the system constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the moment to change.
"We will become a more complete team because when all the personnel are back, we are not intending to use a back three in every match."
Injury Crisis Continue
Having only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
