Manager Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have signaled "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 deploy an standard back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a back six in the final stages as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably said that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the squad to excel in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to forge an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When you criticize altering the system all the time, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger side because when our full complement of players return, we are not planning to use a back three exclusively."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
Having only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That figure will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing insight.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
