Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to use an orthodox back four with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a back six in the closing minutes as his squad held on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that not even the highest authority could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim asserts the option to play with varied formations has remained part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside criticism.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a separate juncture. We lack a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever the press talk about altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a better team because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders exclusively."
Availability Crisis Continue
With only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his boss to let him to return after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
The Captain's Influence Endures
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the exact timeline for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
