Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three formation with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his team dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once notably remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize alternative setups has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I lacked the personnel to excel in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We lack a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever media criticize altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, then is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a more complete squad because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to employ a back three exclusively."
Injury Challenges Continue
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be a prominent presence, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering insight.
"He 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 communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has bad things sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While 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, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
