Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's formation due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense with two central midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his squad clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
While he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with varied setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a lot of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When media criticize 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 feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, then is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a more complete team because when all the personnel are available, we are not going to employ three defenders exclusively."
Squad Crisis Loom Large
Having just two victories in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pushing his manager to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing input.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Key Players
Although the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars 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.
