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The former manager's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the wrong reasons. In the Premier League era, no United manager has managed a worse points return, nor achieved a standing as poor as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of matches. Moreover, he infamously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly the current side of Spurs.

The game, though, is not often so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, Amorim leaves behind a team in a much stronger position than that which he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the most impressive team they had encountered in some time. Their football in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and exhilarating.

Even though it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was said to be caused by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his downfall was finally hampered by terrible luck. Had the absence of vital personnel not coincided with the loss of other important figures, he could remain in the role—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher steps into a reasonably stable scenario. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Simply sensible management of this gifted roster should be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—probably in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

Burnley, however, won't be a pushover. Even with having only 12 points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their displays have at times been more impressive than the scorelines indicate. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his side fired up to get after the visitors who are set to start an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have not used for over a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.