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Ruben Amorim's time at Manchester United has been labeled a notable letdown. By any measure, his performance stands out for all the negative causes. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a worse points return, nor secured a standing as poor as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in the team's history by suffering a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.

The game, but, is rarely so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a club in a far better state than the one he inherited. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising United as the finest side they had encountered in some time. The football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to argue against the termination—especially given it was said to be caused by his comments about superiors with poorer track records—his demise was in the end stymied by awful luck. If injuries to key stars not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important members, he may remain in the job—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a relatively stable situation. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the African tournament. Simply sensible stewardship of this talented squad should be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

Vincent Kompany's team, but, will not roll over. Although boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in three of their last five matches, their performances have often been better than the scorelines indicate. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to get after United who are set to play an lineup that has never played together, arranged in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.