Manager Ruben Amorim contends that altering Manchester United's formation due to public scrutiny would have signaled "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wing-backs and opted to use an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once notably said that even the highest authority could compel him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with alternative setups has always been part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were doing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I don't have the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press discuss altering the formation all the time, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a stronger side because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders all the time."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
