Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to field an standard four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a back six in the closing phase as his side clung on for a win - securing only their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could compel him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to experiment with alternative setups has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an style. Now is a distinct juncture. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press talk about altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the right time to change.
"We are going to become a stronger side because when all the players are available, we are not intending to play with three defenders in every match."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
With only two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Remains
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
