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The former manager's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major failure. By any measure, his record stands out for all the poor factors. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed fewer points per game, or achieved a standing as poor as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a higher percentage of games. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

The game, but, is not often so straightforward. Despite the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he leaves behind a team in a far better state than the one he took over. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding their opponents as the finest team they had encountered in a while. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both encouraging and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to argue against the termination—especially given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of executives with even worse track records—Amorim's exit was finally hindered by terrible fortune. If injuries to key players not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal individuals, he may remain in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly positive state of affairs. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the African tournament. Simply sensible husbandry of this skilled squad ought to be enough to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—probably in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Task

The home side, however, will not be a pushover. Although having only 12 points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their displays have at times been more impressive than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will surely have his side fired up to take the game to opponents who are likely to field an XI that has never played together, deployed in a formation they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.