Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to use an standard four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his team clung on for a win - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably stated that even the Pope could force him to change his approach, Amorim maintains the ability to play with varied formations has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I lacked the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"Our aim was to build an style. Today is a different moment. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press talk about changing the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a better squad because when our full complement of players are back, we are not going to use three defenders all the time."
Availability Issues Continue
Having only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to state his team have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a severely stretched squad, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pushing his boss to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering guidance.
"The guy is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
Although the precise timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
