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Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his record is remarkable for all the poor causes. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed fewer points per game, or secured a standing as disappointing as 15th in the table. Delving further back, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he notoriously etched his name in club lore by enduring a final loss to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

The game, however, is rarely that simple. Despite the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a team in a far better position than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing United as the finest opposition they had faced in some time. Their football in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of superiors with more miserable histories—Amorim's downfall was in the end stymied by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to vital players not happened at the same time as the loss of other pivotal members, he might still be in the role—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Fletcher steps into a fairly positive state of affairs. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the African tournament. Merely careful stewardship of this talented roster should be adequate to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Challenge

The home side, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in three of their previous five outings, their performances have often been stronger than the results indicate. Manager Scott Parker will surely have his side revved up to take the game to United who are set to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, set up in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.