Manager Ruben Amorim says that switching Manchester United's tactical system due to public pressure would have been "his demise" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three setup with wing-backs and chose to field an traditional four-man defense shielded by two central midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times functioned as a six-man defensive block in the closing phase as his squad dug in for a victory - securing only their second shutout of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably stated that not even the Pope could compel him to adjust his approach, Amorim asserts the ability to play with alternative setups has always been part of his plan.
However, he emphasizes he could only alter the tactics when his team were faring sufficiently well - lest it would appear as if he was succumbing to outside noise.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I realized maybe I lacked the squad to play well in that formation, but it was the start of a process," he said.
"The goal was to build an identity. Now is a different juncture. We lack a lot of players, and we must adapt, so they comprehend why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the influence of the media, or the supporters.
"Whenever the press criticize changing the formation constantly, I can't make a change because the players will understand I'm altering things because of external voices and I think that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are playing well in our preferred setup, then is the moment to evolve.
"We will grow into a better team because when all the players are available, we are not intending to use three defenders exclusively."
Availability Challenges Loom Large
Having only two wins in their last eight outings prior to beating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, however, operating with a injury-ravaged squad, with multiple first-team players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will grow if midfielder Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that forced his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his boss to allow him to make a comeback following his hamstring problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," revealed Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. Definitely not. You can quote me on that."
The Captain's Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will likely continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from a private box, Fernandes was seen monitoring the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his leader to continue offering insight.
"He is a leader," he stated. "He must not be the type of player that when he is absent, he's silent and speaking. He's always communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"He has flaws at times - his mannerisms he moves his arms - but he has a multitude of positive qualities. After he recovers, he heads to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects that go unnoticed.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a leader."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of other unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains uncertain, by the end of January, the club will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
