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Ruben Amorim's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable letdown. Looking at the numbers, his performance is remarkable for all the poor causes. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has managed a lower points average, nor secured a final position as low as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he notoriously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham, specifically Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.

Life, however, is not often so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, Amorim leaves behind a squad in a much stronger condition than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that his colleagues were praising United as the most impressive side they had faced in a while. Their performance in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

While it is hard to contest the termination—particularly given it was said to be caused by his remarks regarding bosses with more miserable histories—his demise was finally hampered by awful luck. Had the absence of vital players not coincided with the loss of other important individuals, he might remain in the job—maybe succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly solid scenario. Important figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible management of this skilled roster should be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—most likely in the elite UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

The home side, but, will not be a pushover. Despite boasting only a dozen points and losing 3 of their last five games, their displays have at times been stronger than the results indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad revved up to take the game to opponents who are set to start an XI that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.