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Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his performance is remarkable for all the negative factors. During the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as low as the 15th spot. Delving further back, 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 famously secured a place in the team's history by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, but, is seldom so black and white. Despite the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a club in a far better condition than that which he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that teammates were praising their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a while. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and thrilling.

Although it is difficult to argue against the termination—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of superiors with even worse records—his demise was finally hampered by awful fortune. Had fitness issues for vital stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other important individuals, he may still be in the role—possibly even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly stable situation. Key figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent husbandry of this talented roster ought to be enough to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

Burnley, but, are unlikely to roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and losing three of their previous five games, their performances have frequently been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Head coach Parker will surely have his team revved up to get after United who are set to start an lineup that has never played together, arranged in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.