Head coach Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to external noise would have been "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and instead use an orthodox back four shielded by two central midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his squad held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the option to play with different formations has remained part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing well enough - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the players to play well in a back three, but it was the start of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Now is a different juncture. We don't have a full complement of players, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"When the press talk about changing the system all the time, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, then is the opportunity to adapt.
"We will grow into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not planning to play with a back three exclusively."
Squad Challenges Continue
With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to return following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
