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The former manager's time at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable letdown. Statistically speaking, his performance is notable for all the negative causes. During the contemporary football age, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, or achieved a final position as poor as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in club lore by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Ange Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

The game, however, is seldom so black and white. Despite the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a squad in a far better state than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that teammates were praising their opponents as the finest opposition they had encountered in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with more miserable histories—Amorim's demise was finally hampered by terrible fortune. Had injuries to crucial personnel not occurred alongside the loss of other essential individuals, he could still be in the job—possibly even.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly stable situation. Important figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible stewardship of this talented group is expected to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for next season—most likely in the elite Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Task

Burnley, though, won't be a pushover. Despite boasting only twelve points and having lost three of their most recent five outings, their performances have often been stronger than the scorelines show. Head coach Scott Parker will surely have his team revved up to get after opponents who are likely to start an XI that has never played together, set up in a system they have been denied for a year or more.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.