Boss Ruben Amorim argues that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his customary three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and instead deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately functioned as a back six in the latter minutes as his side clung on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once memorably said that not even the highest authority could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the ability to play with alternative formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he clarifies he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I understood perhaps I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he said.
"We were trying to build an identity. Currently is a different juncture. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we have to adjust, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the demands of you guys, or the fans.
"Whenever media criticize altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are playing well in our system, that becomes the opportunity to change.
"We will grow into a more complete side because when all the players return, we are not going to play with three defenders all the time."
Squad Issues Continue
With just two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That figure will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pressing his manager to let him to return after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
Fernandes' Influence Remains
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly continue to be a prominent presence, as while most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed monitoring the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to continue providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of 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 Timeline for Key Players
While the specific timeline 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 competition.
