Boss Ruben Amorim says that changing Manchester United's tactical system due to public noise would have meant "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and instead field an orthodox back four shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this effectively transformed into a back six in the final minutes as his side held on for a win - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Although he once notably remarked that even the highest authority could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim maintains the capacity to play with different setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he stresses he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing at an acceptable level - lest it would look as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the players to excel in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Today is a distinct juncture. We are missing a lot of players, and we need adjust, so they comprehend why we are changing.
"The change isn't because of the demands of the media, or the faithful.
"When the press discuss altering the system constantly, I cannot make a change because the players will believe I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are performing strongly in our system, then is the right time to evolve.
"This will help us grow into a stronger team because when all the players are available, we are not intending to use three defenders all the time."
Injury Challenges Loom Large
With only two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been playing well.
He is, though, working with a injury-ravaged squad, with seven first-team players already ruled out for the upcoming home game against winless Wolves.
That number will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the injury that forced his exit from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves match, despite the fact he is understood to be urging his manager to let him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can write that."
The Captain's Leadership Endures
However, the 31-year-old will probably continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players 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 continue offering insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he stated. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and offering advice. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. Even after he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is uncertain, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental competition.
