Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to media pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wing-backs and instead deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the final stages as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim insists the option to play with varied formations has remained part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood perhaps I didn't possess the players to excel in a back three, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Today is a separate juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need be flexible, so they see the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of you guys, or the supporters.
"When you discuss changing the formation all the time, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"Only when we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the right time to change.
"This will help us grow into a stronger side because when our full complement of players are available, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Availability Issues Loom Large
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on offering guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy 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 bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
