Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead use an standard four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a back six in the latter phase as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to play with different formations has always been part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Now is a different time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adapt, so they understand why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever the press talk about altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our system, that is the opportunity to change.
"We will grow into a better team because when all the personnel return, we are not going to play with a back three exclusively."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
Having only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a depleted roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his manager to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as while 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 player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot 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 negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
