Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary back three formation with wing-backs and opted to use an standard back four with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately transformed into a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his squad dug in for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to experiment with alternative formations has remained part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could only implement the change when his team were doing at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an style. Currently is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of players, and we must adapt, so they see the reason we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of you guys, or the supporters.
"When media discuss changing the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Only when we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"This will help us develop into a better team because when all the players are available, we are not going to employ a back three exclusively."
Squad Issues Continue
Having only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will almost certainly still be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the exact date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
