Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have signaled "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to use an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a back six in the final minutes as his team held on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once notably said that even the highest authority could force him to change his system, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize different formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I lacked the players to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a separate time. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they understand why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"When media talk about changing the system constantly, I can't change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to become a better squad because when our full complement of players are available, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Crisis Persist
With only two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue offering guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
