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The former manager's spell at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the wrong causes. Throughout the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, nor managed a standing as low as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly the current iteration of Tottenham.

Football, though, is not often that simple. Regardless of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a club in a much stronger state than the one he found. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the finest side they had faced in some time. Their football in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of executives with even worse histories—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by atrocious fortune. If fitness issues for vital personnel not occurred alongside the loss of other pivotal individuals, he might remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively stable state of affairs. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent stewardship of this skilled squad is expected to be enough to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for next season—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

Burnley, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite boasting only 12 points and having lost three of their previous five matches, their showings have frequently been stronger than the results suggest. Boss Parker will certainly have his side revved up to get after United who are set to field an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a setup they have been denied for over a year.

Kick-off: 8:15 in the evening GMT.