Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's tactical system due to media pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his team dug in for a win - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once famously stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the capacity to utilize alternative formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing well enough - lest it would appear as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"We were trying to build an identity. Now is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press criticize altering the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the moment to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a more complete side because when all the players are back, we are not planning to employ a back three exclusively."
Injury Challenges Continue
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a severely stretched squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Endures
However, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on offering insight.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
