Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively functioned as a back six in the final stages as his side clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably said that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with alternative setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were doing well enough - lest it would seem as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I don't have the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an identity. Now is a separate moment. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever media discuss altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the end for the manager.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the moment to change.
"This will help us develop into a more complete squad because when our full complement of players return, we are not intending to employ a back three all the time."
Squad Issues Continue
Having just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That number will increase 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 miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
The Captain's Leadership Remains
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has negative aspects at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, 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 leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
