Head coach Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a back six in the latter stages as his squad dug in for a win - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were faring well enough - lest it would look as if he was bowing to external noise.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a separate time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they see the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press discuss altering the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to become a better side because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
Having just two wins in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured stars watch 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 anticipates his captain to continue providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he recovers, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Players
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
