Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side held on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Although he once notably remarked that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with varied setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I lacked the squad to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a different time. We are missing a full complement of players, and we need adapt, so they see the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"When media talk about altering the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a better team because when all the players are available, we are not going to play with a back three exclusively."
Squad Issues Continue
With just two victories in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
