Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to external pressure would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and instead use an standard back four with two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a back six in the latter minutes as his side held on for a crucial result - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously remarked that even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim insists the option to play with alternative setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring at an acceptable level - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the players to excel in that formation, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Today is a separate moment. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they see the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever media discuss changing the system constantly, I can't change because the squad will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger side because when all the players are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders exclusively."
Squad Crisis Persist
With only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That figure will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on offering input.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things 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."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
Although the specific date for the captain's return - and that of other unavailable 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 duty.
