Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to field an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a back six in the closing minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the option to utilize different formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I don't have the players to excel in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to build an style. Today is a separate time. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the faithful.
"When media discuss altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, then is the moment to adapt.
"We are going to become a more complete squad because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to play with three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Continue
Having just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely still be heavily involved, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
While the specific date for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
