Manager Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and chose to field an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his team held on for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the Pope could force him to change his system, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a separate juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they understand why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the faithful.
"When the press discuss changing the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger side because when all the players are available, we are not intending to play with a back three all the time."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
Having just two wins in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple senior stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That total will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to make a comeback following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
