Boss Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have been "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his customary back three formation with wing-backs and opted to deploy an standard four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times transformed into a back six in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize alternative setups has always been part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I don't have the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"We were trying to establish an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of journalists, or the fans.
"Whenever media talk about changing the formation all the time, I can't make a change because the squad will believe I'm changing because of external voices and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our system, then is the right time to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a more complete team because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not planning to play with a back three exclusively."
Injury Challenges Persist
Having only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to say his team have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team players already unavailable for the upcoming home game against struggling Wolves.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. That's definitive."
The Captain's Role Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely still be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has bad things at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
Although the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, before the conclusion of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
