Manager Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have meant "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his usual back three setup with wide defenders and opted to deploy an traditional back four with two defensive midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the closing minutes as his team clung on for a crucial result - securing just their second-ever shutout of the season.
Despite he once notably said that not even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim maintains the option to experiment with different setups has consistently been part of his plan.
Yet, he stresses he could solely implement the change when his team were performing sufficiently well - or else it would look as if he was bowing to outside noise.
"At the time I arrived here last season, I realized perhaps I lacked the players to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a project," he said.
"We were trying to build an philosophy. Currently is a different juncture. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we need adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"The change isn't because of the pressure of you guys, or the fans.
"When the press talk about changing the system constantly, I can't change because the players will understand I'm changing because of you and I feel that is the end for the coach.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, that is the right time to change.
"This will help us develop into a more complete side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to use a back three exclusively."
Squad Challenges Loom Large
With just two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his team have been in good form.
He is, however, managing with a injury-ravaged roster, with seven first-team players already ruled out for the forthcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will rise if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly urging his boss to allow him to make a comeback 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. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
However, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering guidance.
"He is a natural leader," he affirmed. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's constantly vocal. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are negative aspects at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of strengths. After he recovers, he heads to observe the rest of the squad training. There are a lot of things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, before the conclusion of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.