Manager Ruben Amorim argues that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wide defenders and chose to deploy an traditional back four with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this at times transformed into a back six in the latter stages as his squad dug in for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could force him to change his approach, Amorim insists the ability to utilize varied setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would appear as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I arrived here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the start of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Currently is a different moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need adapt, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever media discuss changing the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will think I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, that is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to become a more complete side because when all the personnel return, we are not going to use three defenders in every match."
Availability Issues Continue
Having just two victories in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering input.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Players
Although the exact date for the captain's comeback - 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 continental competition.
