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The former manager's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record stands out for all the poor causes. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, nor managed a league finish as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically Ange Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Football, but, is seldom that simple. Despite the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim exits a squad in a far better position than the one he found. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck relayed that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the most impressive team they had faced in some time. Their performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Even though it is difficult to dispute the termination—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of executives with more miserable histories—his downfall was in the end hampered by terrible fortune. Had the absence of crucial players not occurred alongside the absence of other essential individuals, he might still be in the job—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively positive state of affairs. Star figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible stewardship of this gifted roster is expected to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Challenge

Burnley, however, won't make things easy. Although boasting only a dozen points and having lost three of their last five games, their showings have at times been stronger than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Parker will certainly have his squad pumped up to get after opponents who are set to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, arranged in a system they have not used for over a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.