Boss Ruben Amorim contends that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have been "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his trademark back three formation with wing-backs and opted to field an orthodox back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the final phase as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite he once famously said that even the Pope could pressure him to change his approach, Amorim insists the capacity to play with alternative setups has remained part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he stresses he could only make the switch when his team were performing at an acceptable level - otherwise it would look as if he was succumbing to outside criticism.
"When I arrived here the previous campaign, I recognized maybe I lacked the personnel to perform effectively in that formation, but it was the beginning of a journey," he commented.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a distinct moment. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the faithful.
"Whenever you discuss changing the system all the time, I can't make a change because the players will think I'm altering things because of external voices and I feel that is the downfall for the coach.
"When we are getting results in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to become a better side because when our full complement of players are available, we are not planning to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Issues Loom Large
With only two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a depleted roster, with seven first-team stars already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails 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 match, despite the fact he is reportedly pushing his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already insisting he needs 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."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to carry on providing guidance.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my position or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
While the precise 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, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
