Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's formation due to media noise would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this at times became a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with different formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were performing well enough - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external noise.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to excel in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"We were trying to build an identity. Today is a separate moment. We don't have a full complement of players, and we have to be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"When media criticize altering the system repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us become a more complete side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not planning to employ three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Persist
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to say his team have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the other guys training. 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 leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
