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Amorim's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his record stands out for all the wrong reasons. Throughout the Premier League era, no United manager has managed fewer points per game, or secured a final position as low as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he infamously secured a place in club lore by suffering a loss in a final to Spurs, namely the current side of Spurs.

The game, however, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a team in a significantly improved state than the one he found. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck shared that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in some time. Their football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exciting.

Even though it is hard to argue against the termination—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his criticism of bosses with poorer histories—his downfall was in the end stymied by atrocious fortune. Had fitness issues for vital players not occurred alongside the absence of other pivotal individuals, he could still be in the position—perhaps even.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively stable state of affairs. Important figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent management of this talented squad is expected to be enough to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Test

Burnley, but, will not make things easy. Even with having only 12 points and having lost 3 of their most recent five matches, their displays have frequently been more impressive than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Parker will certainly have his side revved up to take the game to the visitors who are likely to start an lineup that has never played together, arranged in a formation they have been denied for more than a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.