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Ruben Amorim's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable letdown. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the poor factors. In the contemporary football age, no United manager has managed a worse points return, nor achieved a standing as low as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly the current side of the North London club.

The game, but, is rarely so straightforward. Regardless of the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he exits a club in a significantly improved position than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were praising United as the most impressive opposition they had encountered in some time. The football in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to contest the termination—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of executives with even worse histories—his exit was in the end stymied by awful fortune. Had the absence of key personnel not coincided with the absence of other pivotal figures, he may remain in the position—perhaps thriving.

A New Era Begins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a reasonably positive state of affairs. Key players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Afcon. Just sensible husbandry of this talented group ought to be adequate to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

The home side, though, are unlikely to roll over. Even with having only 12 points and losing three of their last five outings, their performances have often been stronger than the results show. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his side revved up to take the game to opponents who are expected to start an starting eleven that has never played together, set up in a system they have been denied for more than a year.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.