Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox four-man defense with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a back six in the latter phase as his squad dug in for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously said that not even the Pope could pressure him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to play with alternative formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We lack a full complement of players, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will think I'm changing because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the moment to evolve.
"We will grow into a stronger team because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to play with three defenders in every match."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With only two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
