Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wide defenders and opted to deploy an standard back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once famously said that even the Pope could pressure him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his plan.
However, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring well enough - or else it would seem as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I recognized maybe I don't have the players to play well in that system, but it was the start of a process," he commented.
"Our aim was to build an philosophy. Now is a different moment. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they understand the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the faithful.
"Whenever media discuss altering the system constantly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the right time to adapt.
"This will help us develop into a more complete team because when all the personnel are available, we are not intending to employ three defenders exclusively."
Availability Crisis Loom Large
Having just two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to state his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven senior players already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to return after his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be heavily involved, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise date for the captain's return - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
