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Amorim's spell at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a significant letdown. Looking at the numbers, his performance is remarkable for all the poor factors. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has achieved fewer points per game, nor achieved a final position as disappointing 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 higher percentage of games. Moreover, he infamously etched his name in United's annals by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, specifically the current iteration of Spurs.

Life, though, is not often that simple. Regardless of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a team in a much stronger position than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a while. The play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.

Even though it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his criticism of bosses with even worse track records—his downfall was ultimately stymied by terrible luck. If fitness issues for crucial personnel not occurred alongside the absence of other essential members, he might remain in the position—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher steps into a fairly positive situation. Key figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent management of this skilled squad is expected to be adequate to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the prestigious European Cup.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

Vincent Kompany's team, though, are unlikely to roll over. Even with boasting only twelve points and having lost 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have frequently been better than the outcomes show. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his side fired up to attack United who are expected to start an lineup that has not had time to gel, deployed in a formation they have gone without for over a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.