Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead field an standard back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively became a back six in the closing minutes as his side clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the players to play well in a back three, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the right time to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when all the personnel are available, we are not going to play with a back three all the time."
Squad Issues Loom Large
Having only two wins in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Remains
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering insight.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
