Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual back three setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively became a back six in the closing phase as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the capacity to play with alternative formations has remained part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"When I came here last season, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to build an identity. Now is a separate moment. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When media talk about altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a better side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to use three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Persist
Having only two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Endures
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
