Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three formation with wing-backs and instead field an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this at times became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side clung on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the capacity to utilize varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
However, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I don't have the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"The goal was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a separate juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the faithful.
"When media discuss altering the system constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"We will develop into a better team because when all the personnel are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders exclusively."
Availability Crisis Continue
With just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his side have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on offering insight.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the exact date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
