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Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a notable failure. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the negative reasons. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has achieved a worse points return, or achieved a standing as low as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who lost a higher percentage of games. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in club lore by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly Ange Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

Life, however, is rarely that simple. Regardless of the negative press of his favored system, he departs from a team in a far better condition than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that his colleagues were lauding United as the finest team they had faced in a long time. The football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

While it is tough to argue against the termination—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his remarks regarding superiors with poorer histories—Amorim's exit was finally hampered by terrible fortune. If injuries to key players not occurred alongside the absence of other essential figures, he may still be in the position—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly positive state of affairs. Star players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely careful husbandry of this talented roster should be adequate to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—probably in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Challenge

The home side, but, will not be a pushover. Despite having only a dozen points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their showings have at times been stronger than the results show. Boss Parker will certainly have his side fired up to attack opponents who are set to play an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.