Boss Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media noise would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and opted to deploy an orthodox back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim asserts the ability to play with alternative formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I realized perhaps I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Now is a different juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we must be flexible, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press criticize altering the system constantly, I cannot change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to become a stronger team because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to employ a back three in every match."
Injury Crisis Persist
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a severely stretched roster, with multiple first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as while most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. 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 job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's comeback - 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 international competition.
