Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to external noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wing-backs and instead field an traditional back four with two central midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing just their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once notably said that not even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim insists the ability to utilize different formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he stresses he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to external pressure.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to build an style. Today is a different moment. We lack a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"When you criticize altering the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our system, then is the moment to adapt.
"We will grow into a stronger squad because when our full complement of players are available, we are not planning to use three defenders in every match."
Injury Challenges Continue
With just two wins in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been playing well.
He is, however, operating with a depleted squad, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already saying he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. That's definitive."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
