Manager Ruben Amorim says that altering Manchester United's formation due to external pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary back three setup with wing-backs and opted to use an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this at times became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side dug in for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously stated that even the highest authority could pressure him to tweak his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied setups has remained part of his plan.
Nevertheless, he stresses he could only make the switch when his team were performing well enough - or else it would look as if he was giving in to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the squad to perform effectively in that system, but it was the beginning of a project," he commented.
"We were trying to build an style. Currently is a different time. We lack a full complement of players, and we need adjust, so they understand why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press discuss altering the formation constantly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of you and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are playing well in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"This will help us grow into a stronger team because when all the players are back, we are not intending to employ a back three in every match."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, managing with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pushing his manager to let him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Role Endures
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the pre-match routines from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to continue offering insight.
"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's why he's the captain.
"There are flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Return Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the exact timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
