Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have been "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his side held on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim maintains the option to utilize alternative formations has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the personnel to excel in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he stated.
"The goal was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a different time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"When you discuss altering the system all the time, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to grow into a more complete squad because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to use three defenders exclusively."
Injury Crisis Continue
With only two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players 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 international competition.
