Boss Ruben Amorim says that switching Man Utd's formation due to public noise would have signaled "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead use an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his side held on for a crucial result - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
Although he once memorably stated that even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the option to play with varied setups has remained part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I don't have the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a different juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"When the press discuss changing the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the opportunity to change.
"We will develop into a better squad because when our full complement of personnel are back, we are not going to employ a back three in every match."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
Having only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the exact date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
