Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox back four with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the final minutes as his side dug in for a victory - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once notably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the capacity to experiment with different formations has consistently been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could only make the switch when his team were doing sufficiently well - lest it would seem as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I arrived here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an identity. Currently is a different moment. We lack a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the system constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us become a stronger side because when all the players are available, we are not going to employ three defenders exclusively."
Availability Issues Persist
Having just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a depleted roster, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pressing his boss to allow him to return following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
