Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wide defenders and opted to use an standard four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a back six in the closing minutes as his team held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
While he once memorably stated that even the Pope could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with different setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring well enough - or else it would look as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to excel in a back three, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Now is a separate time. We don't have a full complement of players, and we need adjust, so they see why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"When the press criticize altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, then is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us become a stronger side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Continue
Having just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific date for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
