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Amorim's time at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a notable letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the negative causes. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a worse points return, or secured a final position as low as the 15th spot. 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 greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in the team's history by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, but, is seldom that simple. In spite of the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a team in a much stronger position than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising United as the finest side they had played against in a long time. The play in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally promising and exciting.

Even though it is tough to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be triggered by his comments about superiors with more miserable track records—Amorim's exit was finally hindered by atrocious luck. If fitness issues for key stars not happened at the same time as the absence of other essential individuals, he could still be in the position—maybe even.

A New Era Begins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively stable situation. Star players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the African tournament. Simply careful stewardship of this gifted roster is expected to be enough to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—most likely in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Tough Challenge

The home side, but, won't roll over. Although boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have at times been better than the outcomes indicate. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his team revved up to attack United who are expected to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, arranged in a system they have gone without for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.