Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to field an standard back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his squad clung on for a win - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with different formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would appear as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"Our aim was to establish an identity. Today is a different moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they see the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When media criticize changing the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.
"We will become a stronger team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to use a back three exclusively."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal 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 reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering 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 always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
