Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox back four shielded by two central midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the option to utilize varied formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could only implement the change when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I don't have the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a lot of players, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press talk about altering the system all the time, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the right time to change.
"We are going to grow into a better team because when our full complement of players return, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Challenges Continue
Having just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a depleted roster, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on offering input.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
