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Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils has been labeled a major disappointment. Statistically speaking, his performance is notable for all the poor factors. During the Premier League era, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or managed a final position as disappointing as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of games. Moreover, he infamously secured a place in United's annals by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

The game, though, is not often so straightforward. Regardless of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a far better condition than the one he took over. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck reported that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the finest team they had played against in some time. Their performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is hard to contest the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his comments about executives with poorer track records—Amorim's downfall was finally stymied by atrocious fortune. Had fitness issues for crucial players not occurred alongside the loss of other pivotal individuals, he may remain in the position—perhaps even.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively stable state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the African tournament. Just careful husbandry of this gifted squad should be adequate to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, though, will not roll over. Even with having only 12 points and losing 3 of their most recent five games, their performances have frequently been better than the results suggest. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to take the game to United who are set to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.