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Amorim's time at the Red Devils has been labeled a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the wrong reasons. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, nor achieved a league finish as poor as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of matches. Additionally, he famously secured a place in United's annals by enduring a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Ange Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

Life, however, is seldom that simple. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a squad in a much stronger state than that which he found. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, the striker Welbeck relayed that teammates were lauding their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had encountered in some time. Their football in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be caused by his comments about bosses with even worse records—Amorim's demise was ultimately stymied by awful fortune. If the absence of vital players not coincided with the loss of other essential figures, he may still be in the position—possibly thriving.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a relatively solid situation. Key figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Merely sensible husbandry of this gifted squad ought to be sufficient to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the coveted European Cup.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, won't be a pushover. Despite boasting only 12 points and losing 3 of their last five outings, their displays have often been stronger than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to get after the visitors who are expected to start an XI that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have gone without for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.