Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's formation due to public pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three formation with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a back six in the final phase as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably stated that even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with different formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
However, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to external pressure.
"When I came here last season, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Now is a distinct moment. We lack a full complement of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"When the press talk about changing the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are getting results in our system, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to grow into a more complete squad because when all the personnel are back, we are not going to employ a back three in every match."
Squad Issues Persist
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a depleted roster, with multiple first-team players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will miss the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Endures
However, the 31-year-old will probably still be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering insight.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
