Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark three-at-the-back formation with wide defenders and opted to field an traditional four-man defense with two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this ultimately became a six-man defensive block in the latter minutes as his side dug in for a win - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably stated that even the highest authority could force him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the option to utilize different formations has remained part of his plan.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - or else it would seem as if he was succumbing to outside pressure.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized maybe I didn't possess the personnel to perform effectively in that system, but it was the start of a journey," he stated.
"We were trying to establish an style. Today is a distinct juncture. We are missing a full complement of personnel, and we must adapt, so they see why we are changing.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"When you discuss altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the opportunity to adapt.
"We are going to become a more complete team because when our full complement of players return, we are not going to use three defenders all the time."
Squad Challenges Persist
With only two wins in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is right to say his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted roster, with multiple senior players already ruled out for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is reportedly urging his manager to let him to return following his muscle injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to train," revealed Amorim. "However there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Role Is Unwavering
However, the 31-year-old will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to carry on providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has flaws sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of strengths. Even after he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a lot of aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a true captain."
Return Schedule for Key Personnel
While the specific date for Fernandes' return - and that of other injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unknown, by the end of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
