Boss Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary back three formation with wide defenders and instead use an orthodox four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this at times transformed into a back six in the latter phase as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize different setups has remained part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I came here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"The goal was to build an style. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we need adapt, so they understand why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the system all the time, I can't change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"We will develop into a stronger side because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to employ a back three all the time."
Injury Crisis Continue
Having just two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with multiple senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
