Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to public pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his squad held on for a victory - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once famously remarked that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize different setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing well enough - or else it would look as if he was bowing to external criticism.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he said.
"We were trying to establish an philosophy. Currently is a different juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When media criticize changing the formation all the time, I can't make a change because the players will think I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a more complete side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Availability Crisis Loom Large
Having only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on offering guidance.
"The guy is a natural leader," he affirmed. "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's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
