Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the squad to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Today is a separate juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press discuss changing the system repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our system, that is the right time to evolve.
"We will grow into a better squad because when all the personnel are available, we are not intending to employ a back three all the time."
Squad Issues Persist
Having only two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team stars already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off 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 clash, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue providing guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
