Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to external pressure would have meant "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this at times became a back six in the latter phase as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once famously said that even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the option to utilize varied setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to external noise.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I lacked the players to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Currently is a different time. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press talk about changing the system all the time, I can't change because the players will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to develop into a more complete side because when all the players are back, we are not going to use three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a depleted squad, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
