Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary back three setup with wing-backs and chose to use an standard back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a back six in the latter stages as his squad dug in for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once memorably remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to play with varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I came here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Now is a distinct juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever the press talk about altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to develop into a stronger squad because when our full complement of players are available, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two wins in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Endures
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the precise date for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
