Manager Ruben Amorim says that changing Man Utd's formation due to media noise would have been "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an standard back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the final stages as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once memorably stated that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with alternative setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"The goal was to establish an identity. Today is a different time. We lack a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever the press discuss changing the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to change.
"We will develop into a better side because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not going to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly still be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader 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 absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
