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The former manager's time at the Red Devils has been labeled a notable letdown. By any measure, his results is remarkable for all the poor reasons. In the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded fewer points per game, nor secured a final position as poor as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he notoriously etched his name in United's annals by enduring a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically the current version of Spurs.

The game, but, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the scrutiny of his favored system, Amorim leaves behind a team in a significantly improved position than the one he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had played against in some time. The football in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

While it is difficult to contest the termination—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his criticism of superiors with even worse track records—Amorim's exit was in the end hampered by atrocious luck. Had injuries to crucial players not coincided with the loss of other important figures, he may remain in the position—possibly thriving.

A New Era Begins

As a result, Darren Fletcher inherits a relatively solid state of affairs. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the African tournament. Just sensible husbandry of this talented squad is expected to be adequate to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for next season—in all likelihood in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, though, won't make things easy. Although boasting only a dozen points and having lost three of their last five matches, their displays have at times been more impressive than the outcomes indicate. Manager Parker will certainly have his team fired up to take the game to the visitors who are set to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a formation they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.