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Ruben Amorim's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the poor causes. In the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, nor achieved a final position as low as 15th in the table. Delving further back, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Furthermore, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, particularly the current version of Tottenham.

Football, though, is not often so straightforward. Despite the scrutiny of his favored system, he departs from a squad in a much stronger condition than the one he took over. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the best side they had encountered in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his comments about superiors with even worse histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately hindered by atrocious fortune. If injuries to vital stars not occurred alongside the unavailability of other pivotal individuals, he might remain in the position—possibly even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively solid situation. Star players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent husbandry of this skilled group ought to be adequate to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the following term—probably in the prestigious European Cup.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

The home side, but, are unlikely to roll over. Despite having only 12 points and losing 3 of their most recent five outings, their performances have at times been stronger than the results suggest. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his squad revved up to get after United who are likely to play an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, deployed in a formation they have been denied for more than a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.