Head coach Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's formation due to external noise would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately transformed into a back six in the latter minutes as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second clean sheet of the season.
Although he once notably said that even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were doing well enough - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a project," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an style. Now is a separate moment. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the pressure of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever media discuss changing the system constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the end for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"This will help us grow into a better team because when our full complement of personnel return, we are not going to play with a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Loom Large
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to state his team have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a depleted squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable 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 miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, 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 carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
