As rs said, shutting the fuck up and playing what team he wants, as is his right, would have happened probably without much comment though the alleged players that could be missing is a little bit concerning.
If he "rests" players and we get a demoralising arse reaming then he'll get pelters, rightly. If he gets kinda away with a battling defeat/draw/victory he'll be vindicated.
It's good having a manager that's media savvy.