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Amorim's tenure at Manchester United was widely regarded as a significant disappointment. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the negative reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, or achieved a final position as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by enduring a final loss to Spurs, namely Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Life, but, is not often so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a squad in a significantly improved condition than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck relayed that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the most impressive team they had encountered in a while. The play in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

Even though it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be caused by his criticism of bosses with more miserable histories—Amorim's exit was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. If the absence of vital players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other essential members, he may remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly solid scenario. Key figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible management of this talented roster should be sufficient to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, though, won't roll over. Although having only 12 points and having lost 3 of their most recent five games, their showings have at times been better than the outcomes show. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his squad revved up to take the game to United who are likely to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, arranged in a system they have been denied for more than a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.