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Amorim's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a significant letdown. By any measure, his performance stands out for all the poor reasons. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has achieved a lower points average, or achieved a final position as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in club lore by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, namely Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Football, however, is seldom that simple. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a team in a much stronger state than the one he found. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck relayed that fellow players were praising United as the finest opposition they had played against in a long time. The performance in a thrilling four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exciting.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly sparked by his comments about executives with poorer histories—his exit was finally hampered by awful fortune. Had the absence of vital stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other important members, he may remain in the role—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a reasonably positive scenario. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Simply sensible husbandry of this gifted group is expected to be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

The home side, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five games, their performances have at times been stronger than the scorelines show. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to get after United who are expected to play an lineup that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a formation they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.