Manager Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead use an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once notably stated that not even the Pope could force him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to experiment with different setups has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"The goal was to build an style. Currently is a separate juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the end for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the right time to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a stronger side because when all the players return, we are not intending to play with a back three in every match."
Injury Crisis Continue
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the precise date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
