Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively became a back six in the closing minutes as his squad clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously said that even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim insists the ability to play with alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were faring sufficiently well - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the players to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.
"The goal was to build an identity. Today is a different time. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they see why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever you talk about altering the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to become a stronger side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to play with three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Persist
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pressing his manager to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, 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 captain to carry on offering insight.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
