Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's formation due to public pressure would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an standard four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his squad clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably remarked that even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to play with varied formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to build an philosophy. Now is a distinct time. We are missing a lot of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a stronger squad because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the exact timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable 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 continental competition.
