Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's formation due to public noise would have been "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his side dug in for a victory - securing just their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize alternative formations has always been part of his strategy.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to external noise.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I don't have the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"The goal was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When the press criticize changing the system all the time, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I think that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, then is the moment to adapt.
"This will help us become a better team because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not intending to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Crisis Continue
With just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among 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 after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the specific timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
