Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's formation due to public noise would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead use an orthodox back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a back six in the latter phase as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim asserts the option to play with alternative formations has remained part of his strategy.
Yet, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an style. Now is a distinct time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they understand why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When you discuss changing the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a stronger side because when our full complement of players return, we are not intending to employ a back three exclusively."
Squad Issues Loom Large
With only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off 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 clash, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
While the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
