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Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils has been labeled a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the poor reasons. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, nor managed a final position as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of games. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by suffering a final loss to Spurs, namely Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, however, is seldom so black and white. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, he departs from a club in a far better position than the one he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck shared that his colleagues were hailing United as the finest side they had encountered in some time. The football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Even though it is difficult to argue against the termination—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his criticism of bosses with more miserable histories—Amorim's exit was finally stymied by awful luck. If injuries to crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other pivotal individuals, he could remain in the job—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively positive state of affairs. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply sensible husbandry of this gifted group ought to be adequate to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Challenge

Burnley, though, are unlikely to make things easy. Despite having only a dozen points and losing three of their last five outings, their performances have frequently been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Head coach Parker will certainly have his team fired up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to start an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a system they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.