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The former manager's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable failure. Looking at the numbers, his performance stands out for all the negative causes. In the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded fewer points per game, nor managed a final position as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a larger share of games. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, but, is rarely that simple. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a club in a significantly improved condition than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were lauding their opponents as the finest side they had faced in a while. The football in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

Although it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—Amorim's downfall was finally hampered by atrocious luck. Had the absence of crucial personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal figures, he might remain in the job—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher takes over a relatively solid scenario. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply careful husbandry of this talented group is expected to be adequate to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Task

Burnley, though, won't make things easy. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their previous five games, their showings have often been better than the scorelines suggest. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to get after the visitors who are likely to field an starting eleven that has never played together, arranged in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.