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Ruben Amorim's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the poor causes. In the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a lower points average, nor managed a league finish as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of games. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in the team's history by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, namely Ange Postecoglou's side of Tottenham.

The game, but, is seldom so straightforward. Regardless of the negative press of his favored system, Amorim departs from a club in a significantly improved condition than that which he found. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that his colleagues were praising United as the finest team they had faced in a long time. The performance in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

Although it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was said to be caused by his criticism of executives with even worse records—his downfall was in the end stymied by awful luck. If injuries to key personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important individuals, he might still be in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a reasonably positive situation. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible management of this talented roster should be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—probably in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

The home side, but, will not roll over. Although boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five games, their showings have frequently been more impressive than the results show. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his team pumped up to get after United who are set to field an XI that has lacked cohesion, deployed in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.