Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to use an standard four-man defense with two central midfielders.
By his own admission this at times became a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably remarked that not even the Pope could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim maintains the ability to play with different setups has always been part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Today is a distinct time. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press discuss 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 a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the moment to change.
"This will help us develop into a more complete team because when all the players are available, we are not intending to use a back three exclusively."
Injury Challenges Continue
Having just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his exit 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 reportedly pressing his manager to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely still be heavily involved, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the specific timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
