Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to use an standard back four with two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his team held on for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the capacity to utilize varied formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I don't have the players to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Now is a different moment. We don't have a full complement of players, and we need adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"When media criticize changing the system all the time, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to change.
"This will help us become a stronger team because when all the personnel are back, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Continue
Having just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, though, operating with a depleted squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue providing 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 captain.
"He has bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
