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Amorim's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. By any measure, his results stands out for all the negative causes. In the contemporary football age, no United manager has managed a lower points average, or secured a standing as disappointing as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of games. Additionally, he notoriously etched his name in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, specifically Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

Football, however, is rarely that simple. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a team in a far better state than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in a long time. The performance in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

Even though it is tough to contest the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of superiors with even worse histories—his demise was finally hampered by terrible fortune. If injuries to vital stars not coincided with the absence of other important figures, he could remain in the position—possibly succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a fairly stable scenario. Key players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon return from the Afcon. Merely sensible stewardship of this gifted group is expected to be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Task

Burnley, however, won't make things easy. Despite boasting only twelve points and having lost 3 of their most recent five games, their showings have frequently been more impressive than the outcomes suggest. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to attack opponents who are set to field an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a formation they have been denied for a year or more.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.