Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's formation due to public noise would have been "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and instead use an standard four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his team held on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably said that even the highest authority could compel him to change his system, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize different setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I came here last season, I realized perhaps I don't have the players to play well in a back three, but it was the beginning of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an identity. Currently is a distinct time. We are missing a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever media discuss changing the system constantly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"We will grow into a better side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not planning to use three defenders in every match."
Availability Crisis Persist
With just two wins in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be deeply engaged, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering input.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
While the exact 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, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
