Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to external pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
Initially against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with varied formations has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he stresses he could only alter the tactics when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an identity. Today is a distinct juncture. We don't have a full complement of personnel, and we must adjust, so they understand the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press discuss changing the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"This will help us develop into a more complete squad because when all the players return, we are not going to play with three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
With just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to make a comeback after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects 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."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
