Head coach Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once notably said that even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to utilize alternative setups has always been part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to excel in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When media discuss changing the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the moment to change.
"We will become a more complete team because when all the players are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
