Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's formation due to external noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and chose to deploy an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the squad to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"The goal was to forge an philosophy. Now is a separate time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When media criticize changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our system, that becomes the right time to evolve.
"We are going to become a better side because when all the players are available, we are not going to use three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched squad, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Endures
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing input.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"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 exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable 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 duty.
