Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's formation due to external scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual back three setup with wing-backs and chose to field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his team clung on for a win - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Although he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could force him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with different setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could only implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to play well in a back three, but it was the start of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Today is a different time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever media discuss changing the system constantly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to evolve.
"We will grow into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders in every match."
Availability Challenges Continue
Having just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his exit 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 pushing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the rest of the squad training. 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 leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Players
While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
