Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately transformed into a back six in the latter stages as his team dug in for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously said that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize different formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to build an style. Today is a separate moment. We lack a lot of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever media talk about altering the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a stronger team because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Continue
Having just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a severely stretched squad, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably still 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 entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
While the specific timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
