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Amorim's tenure at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a major letdown. By any measure, his record is notable for all the poor reasons. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has achieved a worse points return, nor achieved a league finish as disappointing as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Furthermore, he famously etched his name in United's annals by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly the current side of Tottenham.

The game, but, is rarely so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his favored system, he exits a club in a significantly improved condition than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding their opponents as the best opposition they had faced in a long time. The football in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

While it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly triggered by his remarks regarding bosses with more miserable histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately stymied by atrocious luck. If fitness issues for crucial stars not occurred alongside the loss of other essential figures, he may still be in the role—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher steps into a fairly stable state of affairs. Key figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the African tournament. Simply prudent stewardship of this talented group ought to be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for the following term—probably in the elite UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Test

Vincent Kompany's team, however, will not be a pushover. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five games, their performances have at times been better than the outcomes indicate. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to attack opponents who are expected to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.