Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to field an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a back six in the final minutes as his side held on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with alternative setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were performing well enough - or else it would seem as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"When I came here last season, I understood perhaps I don't have the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he said.
"The goal was to establish an identity. Today is a different time. We lack a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to change.
"We will become a more complete squad because when all the players are back, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Persist
With only two victories in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable 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 miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not 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.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
While the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
