Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's formation due to media scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead use an traditional back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his team clung on for a victory - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
Although he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to play with alternative setups has remained part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were doing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I don't have the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he stated.
"The goal was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct time. We lack a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the demands of journalists, or the fans.
"When media criticize changing the formation all the time, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, that is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a more complete team because when all the players return, we are not intending to use a back three all the time."
Injury Issues Continue
Having just two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven senior stars already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to allow him to return following 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. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
