Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have been "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual back three setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a back six in the latter stages as his side clung on for a victory - securing only their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
While he once famously stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to play with alternative formations has always been part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I lacked the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Today is a different time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever media talk about changing the system repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our system, that becomes the right time to adapt.
"We are going to develop into a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Squad Crisis Continue
With just two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
