Boss Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and opted to field an orthodox back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his side clung on for a win - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once notably said that not even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with alternative formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would seem as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the personnel to excel in a back three, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"When you discuss altering the formation all the time, I cannot change because the players will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the right time to adapt.
"We are going to become a stronger team because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Injury Issues Loom Large
Having just two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are bad things at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
Although the precise timeline for the captain's return - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
