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Amorim's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a significant disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the negative causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has achieved a lower points average, nor managed a league finish as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he famously secured a place in the team's history by enduring a loss in a final to Spurs, namely the current side of Tottenham.

The game, however, is not often so straightforward. Despite the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a squad in a significantly improved position than the one he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that fellow players were praising United as the most impressive team they had faced in a long time. The football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is hard to dispute the termination—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his comments about executives with poorer histories—his exit was ultimately stymied by atrocious fortune. If fitness issues for vital stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other essential figures, he may still be in the job—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a fairly positive situation. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Afcon. Merely sensible stewardship of this talented roster ought to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

The home side, however, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although boasting only 12 points and having lost three of their most recent five matches, their showings have often been stronger than the outcomes indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to play an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.