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Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his results stands out for all the wrong factors. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, nor achieved a standing as poor as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Ange Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

The game, however, is not often so straightforward. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager exits a squad in a much stronger state than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Danny Welbeck relayed that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the best side they had played against in a long time. Their play in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exciting.

Although it is tough to contest the termination—especially given it was reportedly sparked by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his exit was in the end hindered by awful fortune. Had fitness issues for crucial stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other important figures, he might remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a reasonably positive situation. Key players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Simply prudent husbandry of this talented roster should be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the following term—most likely in the elite Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their performances have at times been better than the outcomes suggest. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to take the game to opponents who are set to play an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.