Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's formation due to external scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual back three setup with wide defenders and chose to use an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively functioned as a back six in the final minutes as his team dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
Although he once notably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to utilize varied formations has always been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I came here last season, I understood perhaps I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"The goal was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a separate moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever you discuss altering the formation constantly, I cannot change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our system, that becomes the moment to change.
"We are going to grow into a more complete side because when all the personnel are back, we are not intending to use three defenders exclusively."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, however, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if midfielder Mason Mount is unable to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal 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 reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Players
While the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
