Head coach Ruben Amorim contends that switching Manchester United's formation due to external noise would have been "the finish" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim abandoned his usual back three formation with wide defenders and instead field an traditional back four shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this effectively became a back six in the closing phase as his side dug in for a crucial result - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once famously stated that even the Pope could compel him to change his system, Amorim maintains the ability to utilize different formations has always been part of his long-term vision.
Yet, he clarifies he could only alter the tactics when his team were doing well enough - or else it would seem as if he was giving in to external noise.
"At the time I came here last season, I realized maybe I don't have the personnel to play well in that system, but it was the beginning of a process," he said.
"Our aim was to establish an philosophy. Today is a different time. We are missing a lot of players, and we need be flexible, so they comprehend the reason we are switching things up.
"This isn't because of the influence of journalists, or the faithful.
"When the press talk about altering the system constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm changing because of you and I feel that is a disaster for the manager.
"When we are performing strongly in our preferred setup, then is the moment to change.
"This will help us grow into a better side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not planning to play with a back three exclusively."
Availability Challenges Persist
With only two victories in their last eight outings prior to defeating Newcastle, it is questionable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been in good form.
He is, though, managing with a severely stretched squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the forthcoming fixture against winless Wolves.
That figure will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to recover 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 match, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to return after his hamstring problem.
"Fernandes is already saying he needs to train," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to feature against Wolves. No way. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly continue to be heavily involved, as while most injured players watch matches from the stands, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his captain to continue offering insight.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's constantly communicating. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a multitude of good things. Even after he recovers, he goes to observe the rest of the squad practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I'm not sure if he desires my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Return Timeline for Key Players
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - remains unclear, by the end of January, the club will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from continental duty.
