Head coach Ruben Amorim argues that changing Man Utd's tactical system due to media noise would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his customary three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second shutout of the season.
While he once famously remarked that not even the Pope could pressure him to change his system, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied formations has consistently been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were performing sufficiently well - lest it would seem as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I understood maybe I didn't possess the players to excel in a back three, but it was the commencement of a process," he commented.
"We were trying to forge an philosophy. Currently is a distinct juncture. We don't have a lot of players, and we must adjust, so they comprehend the reason we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the fans.
"When you criticize changing the system repeatedly, I can't make a change because the squad will believe I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Only when we are getting results in our system, then is the opportunity to adapt.
"We will become a better squad because when all the personnel are available, we are not going to play with three defenders all the time."
Injury Crisis Continue
With just two victories in eight games before defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will grow if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is understood to be pushing his manager to let him to return after his muscle injury.
"Fernandes is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will likely still be heavily involved, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, 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 continue providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain.
"He has negative aspects at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. Even after he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While the specific timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
