Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's formation due to public scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary back three formation with wing-backs and opted to field an orthodox back four with two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a back six in the closing minutes as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with alternative setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a separate time. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the formation constantly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We will grow into a more complete side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders in every match."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the specific timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
