Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's formation due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and opted to deploy an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a back six in the closing minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize alternative setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
However, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were performing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to be flexible, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever you criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to adapt.
"We are going to grow into a better side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not going to play with three defenders all the time."
Injury Issues Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue offering guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the specific timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
