Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an standard four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to utilize varied formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were doing well enough - lest it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press discuss altering the system all the time, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, then is the moment to adapt.
"We will grow into a more complete team because when all the players are back, we are not going to play with three defenders all the time."
Availability Issues Persist
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Role Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably still be a prominent presence, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the precise date for the captain's comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
