Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively transformed into a back six in the closing stages as his team dug in for a win - securing just their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Nevertheless, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the players to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an style. Currently is a separate juncture. We are missing a lot of personnel, and we must be flexible, so they see why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize altering the formation all the time, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the end for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a better side because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to play with a back three in every match."
Injury Crisis Continue
Having only two victories in their last eight outings before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a depleted roster, with multiple first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will miss the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to return following his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most injured players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Injured Players
Although the specific date for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
