Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that switching Man Utd's formation due to media noise would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and opted to deploy an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once notably stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim maintains the capacity to utilize alternative setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely make the switch when his team were doing sufficiently well - otherwise it would seem as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"When I came 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 commented.
"Our aim was to establish an style. Today is a distinct time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever media talk about changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the end for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, then is the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Availability Crisis Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, managing with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team stars already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if playmaker 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 one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to let him to return after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering guidance.
"He is a 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 flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the rest of the squad training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Players
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
