Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Man Utd's formation due to external scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to field an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this at times functioned as a back six in the latter stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once famously stated that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the ability to utilize different setups has always been part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would appear as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I lacked the squad to excel in that formation, but it was the commencement of a journey," he said.
"The goal was to establish an philosophy. Now is a distinct time. We lack a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they see why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the fans.
"When media talk about altering the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are performing strongly in our system, then is the moment to evolve.
"We are going to grow into a stronger squad because when all the personnel return, we are not intending to use three defenders all the time."
Squad Challenges Continue
Having only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is correct to say his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to recover the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to return following his hamstring injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Endures
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
