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The former manager's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Looking at the numbers, his performance stands out for all the poor factors. In the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or secured a standing as disappointing as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by suffering a loss in a final to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

Life, however, is seldom so straightforward. Despite the scrutiny of his tactical approach, he exits a club in a significantly improved position than the one he inherited. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck reported that teammates were praising United as the most impressive opposition they had played against in some time. The performance in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and thrilling.

While it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable track records—Amorim's exit was in the end stymied by terrible luck. Had fitness issues for key personnel not coincided with the absence of other essential figures, he could still be in the role—perhaps even.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly positive situation. Key figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the African tournament. Simply sensible husbandry of this talented squad should be adequate to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—probably in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Task

Vincent Kompany's team, though, are unlikely to make things easy. Even with boasting only a dozen points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their showings have frequently been more impressive than the results suggest. Head coach Parker will surely have his side fired up to attack United who are likely to field an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a formation they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.