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Ruben Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results is remarkable for all the poor causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a worse points return, or secured a standing as disappointing as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a higher percentage of games. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in the team's history by enduring a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Ange Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

Football, however, is not often that simple. Regardless of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, Amorim exits a squad in a much stronger condition than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing United as the finest team they had encountered in a long time. The play in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to contest the dismissal—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his comments about superiors with more miserable track records—his downfall was in the end stymied by atrocious luck. If injuries to vital players not occurred alongside the loss of other pivotal figures, he may remain in the role—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a fairly stable scenario. Star players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible management of this gifted squad ought to be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, will not roll over. Although having only twelve points and losing three of their last five outings, their displays have frequently been more impressive than the outcomes show. Manager Parker will surely have his squad fired up to take the game to the visitors who are set to play an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a formation they have gone without for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.