Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that altering Manchester United's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
Initially against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an orthodox back four shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the latter stages as his side clung on for a victory - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once famously said that even the Pope could pressure him to tweak his system, Amorim asserts the option to experiment with different formations has always been part of his strategy.
However, he clarifies he could only implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would look as if he was succumbing to external noise.
"When I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the personnel to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"We were trying to establish an style. Now is a different moment. We don't have a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they understand why we are switching things up.
"The change isn't because of the influence of the media, or the faithful.
"When media discuss altering the formation constantly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are playing well in our system, that is the moment to evolve.
"This will help us develop into a stronger side because when all the personnel are back, we are not planning to play with three defenders all the time."
Squad Crisis Continue
Having just two wins in their last eight outings before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a severely stretched squad, with seven first-team players already confirmed absent for the upcoming home game against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is understood to be urging his boss to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he needs to practice," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Remains
However, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be a prominent presence, as whereas most unavailable stars view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his captain to carry on providing input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He must not be that guy that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"He has bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a many things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
Although the specific date for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
