Manager Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and chose to field an standard back four with two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably stated that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the option to play with different setups has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely implement the change when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to build an style. Today is a separate moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever you criticize altering the system all the time, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, that becomes the right time to adapt.
"We are going to become a more complete squad because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his manager to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most unavailable players watch matches from a private box, 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.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
