Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to public noise would have signaled "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three setup with wide defenders and instead field an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his squad dug in for a crucial result - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably said that not even the Pope could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to utilize alternative formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were performing well enough - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I understood maybe I don't have the personnel to play well in a back three, but it was the start of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Today is a separate time. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"It is not because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever you talk about changing the system repeatedly, I cannot change because the squad will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the manager.
"Once we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to change.
"This will help us grow into a more complete squad because when all the players return, we are not planning to play with three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Loom Large
Having only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to state his side have been playing well.
He is, however, working with a depleted squad, with multiple first-team stars already unavailable for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will probably still be deeply engaged, as while most unavailable stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue offering guidance.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's not talking and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects 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 aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Return Timeline for Key Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
