Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times functioned as a back six in the closing minutes as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
While he once famously said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with alternative formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he commented.
"The goal was to forge an style. Currently is a separate time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the demands of the media, or the supporters.
"When the press talk about altering the system all the time, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that becomes the right time to change.
"This will help us develop into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to play with a back three in every match."
Availability Issues Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy 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 sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
