Boss Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably stated that not even the highest authority could force him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with varied formations has always been part of his strategy.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were faring well enough - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I didn't possess the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a separate time. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever you criticize changing the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our system, then is the moment to change.
"This will help us grow into a more complete team because when all the personnel are available, we are not planning to use three defenders all the time."
Squad Issues Loom Large
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior stars already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the precise 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, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
