Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead field an traditional back four with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized maybe I lacked the players to play well in a back three, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Currently is a separate moment. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we must adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the faithful.
"When media talk about changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to play with three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Continue
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pushing his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue providing insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - 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 training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
While the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
