Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and chose to deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a back six in the final phase as his squad held on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once notably remarked that even the Pope could force him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to play with different setups has remained part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to external noise.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"It is not because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When media discuss changing the formation all the time, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.
"This will help us grow into a more complete side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not planning to play with three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Persist
With just two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder 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 be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
