Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to field an traditional back four with two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively functioned as a back six in the closing minutes as his team dug in for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once famously remarked that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the capacity to utilize alternative setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was bowing to external noise.
"When I came here last season, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to excel in a back three, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a distinct moment. We lack a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they understand why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever you criticize altering the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to develop into a more complete team because when all the players are back, we are not intending to use three defenders exclusively."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
Having only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his boss to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
However, the Portuguese star will likely still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
