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Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable failure. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the poor reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a worse points return, or secured a standing as low as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, though, is not often so black and white. Regardless of the scrutiny of his favored system, Amorim exits a squad in a significantly improved state than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were lauding United as the finest opposition they had faced in a long time. Their performance in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

While it is hard to dispute the dismissal—especially given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of executives with more miserable track records—his exit was finally hampered by awful fortune. If injuries to key personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal figures, he could remain in the role—maybe thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively positive state of affairs. Important players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent management of this skilled group ought to be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for next season—probably in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Test

The home side, but, will not make things easy. Even with having only a dozen points and losing 3 of their last five matches, their performances have at times been more impressive than the outcomes suggest. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to get after the visitors who are expected to field an lineup that has never played together, set up in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.