Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's formation due to external pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox back four with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the option to utilize alternative setups has remained part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - lest it would look as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the players to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an style. Now is a separate juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the right time to change.
"We will grow into a stronger side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to play with a back three exclusively."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
With just two victories in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to return following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms 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 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 leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the precise date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
