Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's formation due to media scrutiny would have meant "the finish" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wide defenders and instead deploy an traditional back four with two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a six-man defensive block in the closing stages as his squad clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
Although he once notably said that even the highest authority could force him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with varied formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was giving in to outside pressure.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I understood perhaps I didn't possess the players to perform effectively in that system, but it was the commencement of a journey," he stated.
"The goal was to build an identity. Today is a distinct moment. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they see the reason we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the fans.
"When the press talk about altering the system constantly, I can't make a change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that becomes the right time to adapt.
"We will become a better side because when all the players are back, we are not intending to employ three defenders exclusively."
Injury Issues Persist
Having only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, working with a severely stretched roster, with seven senior players already ruled out for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will rise if playmaker Mason Mount is unable 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, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to allow him to make a comeback following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already telling me he has to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. Definitely not. You can write that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will likely continue to be a prominent presence, as while most unavailable stars view matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to carry on providing input.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's not talking and speaking. He's always speaking. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he recovers, he heads to watch the other guys training. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Personnel
While the precise timeline for Fernandes' comeback - and that of other unavailable 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 continental competition.
