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The former manager's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major failure. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the wrong causes. During the contemporary football age, no United manager has achieved fewer points per game, or secured a league finish as poor as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he notoriously secured a place in club lore by experiencing a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, namely the current iteration of Tottenham.

Football, but, is not often so straightforward. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a team in a far better condition than the one he found. Months ago, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck relayed that fellow players were praising United as the best team they had encountered in some time. Their football in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

Although it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his criticism of bosses with even worse histories—Amorim's exit was in the end hampered by awful luck. Had injuries to key personnel not happened at the same time as the absence of other essential members, he may still be in the job—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher steps into a reasonably solid situation. Star figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Merely careful husbandry of this talented roster should be enough to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

The home side, but, will not roll over. Although boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in three of their previous five games, their performances have at times been better than the outcomes suggest. Boss Parker will certainly have his team revved up to get after United who are likely to start an lineup that has never played together, set up in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.