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The former manager's spell at Manchester United has been labeled a major disappointment. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the wrong reasons. During the Premier League era, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a standing as poor as 15th in the table. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, though, is not often so black and white. Despite the criticism of his favored system, Amorim exits a squad in a far better state than that which he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had played against in a long time. The performance in a thrilling four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his comments about bosses with more miserable records—his demise was in the end stymied by terrible fortune. Had the absence of crucial players not happened at the same time as the loss of other pivotal members, he could still be in the role—possibly succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Fletcher steps into a relatively stable scenario. Key figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Just sensible husbandry of this talented squad should be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—probably in the coveted European Cup.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Burnley, but, will not be a pushover. Despite having only twelve points and losing three of their last five matches, their displays have often been stronger than the outcomes show. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to get after United who are set to start an XI that has not had time to gel, deployed in a formation they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.