Manager Ruben Amorim argues that switching Manchester United's formation due to external pressure would have signaled "his demise" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle, Amorim ditched his trademark back three setup with wing-backs and opted to deploy an orthodox four-man defense shielded by two defensive midfielders.
By his own admission this ultimately functioned as a back six in the latter minutes as his side clung on for a victory - securing just their second shutout of the season.
Although he once memorably remarked that even the highest authority could force him to tweak his system, Amorim insists the ability to play with different setups has consistently been part of his strategy.
Yet, he emphasizes he could solely implement the change when his team were faring at an acceptable level - or else it would seem as if he was succumbing to external criticism.
"At the time I came here last season, I recognized perhaps I lacked the squad to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the beginning of a journey," he said.
"Our aim was to forge an philosophy. Currently is a different juncture. We lack a full complement of personnel, and we need adjust, so they understand why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the demands of journalists, or the supporters.
"Whenever you discuss altering the system constantly, I can't change because the players will think I'm altering things because of you and I believe that is the downfall for the manager.
"When we are getting results in our system, that is the right time to adapt.
"We will develop into a stronger side because when our full complement of players are back, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Injury Issues Continue
With just two victories in eight games prior to defeating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to claim his side have been in good form.
He is, though, working with a depleted roster, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against struggling Wolves.
That number will increase if playmaker Mason Mount is unable to recover the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at the interval.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his manager to allow him to make a comeback after his muscle problem.
"Bruno is already saying he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Leadership Endures
Nevertheless, the 31-year-old will probably still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured players watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was spotted keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the mouth of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim expects his captain to carry on providing insight.
"The guy is a leader," he affirmed. "He cannot be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and speaking. He's always vocal. That's why he's the skipper.
"There are negative aspects sometimes - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. After he finishes treatment, he heads to watch the other guys practicing. There are a lot of things you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my position or not, but he's a leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Personnel
Although the precise timeline for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow unavailable players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unclear, by the end of January, United will welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
