Manager Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary back three setup with wide defenders and opted to field an orthodox back four with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively became a back six in the final phase as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously stated that even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they understand the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"We will grow into a better side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return after 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 way. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
