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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a major failure. Statistically speaking, his performance stands out for all the wrong causes. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has achieved fewer points per game, or secured a standing as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back 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 carved a niche in United's annals by suffering a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, namely the current version of Tottenham.

The game, though, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a club in a much stronger state than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were hailing United as the finest team they had faced in some time. Their performance in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

Even though it is hard to dispute the termination—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding superiors with even worse histories—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hindered by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to vital players not occurred alongside the loss of other essential figures, he could remain in the position—maybe even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a reasonably stable scenario. Key players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Simply careful management of this gifted squad ought to be enough to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for the following term—most likely in the elite Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, won't roll over. Despite boasting only twelve points and having lost three of their most recent five matches, their displays have frequently been more impressive than the results show. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to get after opponents who are likely to field an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.