Boss Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead deploy an standard back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final minutes as his side held on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once notably said that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the ability to experiment with varied setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely make the switch when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I don't have the players to play well in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we need adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you talk about altering the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a better team because when all the personnel are available, we are not going to use three defenders all the time."
Injury Challenges Persist
With just two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted squad, with multiple senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to return after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars 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 offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the precise date for the captain's 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.
