Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his customary back three setup with wide defenders and opted to field an orthodox four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his approach, Amorim insists the ability to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were doing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I understood perhaps I don't have the squad to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he commented.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Currently is a separate juncture. We don't have a full complement of players, and we have to adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"It is not because of the influence of the media, or the fans.
"When media criticize altering the formation repeatedly, I can't change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, that is the moment to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger team because when our full complement of players are available, we are not planning to employ a back three all the time."
Injury Issues Persist
Having just two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, working with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury 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, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his manager to let him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
The Captain's Role Remains
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the mouth of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars 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 international duty.
