Boss Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public scrutiny would have meant "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively became a back six in the final phase as his side held on for a victory - securing only their second-ever shutout of the campaign.
While he once memorably said that even the highest authority could pressure him to adjust his system, Amorim insists the option to experiment with varied formations has consistently been part of his strategy.
However, he emphasizes he could solely make the switch when his team were performing well enough - or else it would appear as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I don't have the personnel to play well in a back three, but it was the commencement of a project," he stated.
"The goal was to build an identity. Currently is a distinct moment. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"It is not because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss changing the system constantly, I can't change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of you and I feel that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, that becomes the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to develop into a stronger side because when all the personnel return, we are not planning to employ three defenders in every match."
Injury Issues Persist
With only two victories in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is right to say his team have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a injury-ravaged roster, with multiple senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves match, even though he is reportedly pressing his boss to allow him to return following his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he needs to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as whereas most unavailable stars watch matches from the stands, 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 carry on providing guidance.
"He is a leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That's why he's the captain.
"There are bad things at times - the way he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to watch the rest of the squad practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Schedule for Injured Players
While the specific 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 duty.
