Manager Ruben Amorim contends that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle United, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and chose to use an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a back six in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably stated that even the highest authority could force him to tweak his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were faring well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we have to be flexible, so they understand why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to develop into a stronger squad because when all the personnel are available, we are not intending to employ a back three exclusively."
Squad Issues Continue
With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno 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 quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted 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 input.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - 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.
