Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to media pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wing-backs and opted to field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the latter phase as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim asserts the option to play with alternative setups has always been part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I didn't possess the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an identity. Now is a different juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever media discuss altering the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"We will become a better side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to use a back three all the time."
Injury Challenges Continue
With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue offering insight.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. 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 training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
