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The former manager's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major letdown. By any measure, his performance stands out for all the negative reasons. During the Premier League era, no United manager has managed a lower points average, or managed a final position as poor as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of games. Moreover, he famously secured a place in club lore by experiencing a loss in a final to Tottenham, particularly Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Life, however, is not often so black and white. Despite the negative press of his favored system, the Portuguese manager exits a squad in a much stronger condition than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a long time. Their performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is hard to dispute the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be caused by his criticism of executives with more miserable histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately stymied by awful luck. Had injuries to vital players not coincided with the unavailability of other important individuals, he may remain in the role—possibly succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively positive situation. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Simply sensible stewardship of this skilled group ought to be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for next season—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to roll over. Although having only twelve points and losing 3 of their most recent five games, their performances have often been better than the outcomes show. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to take the game to the visitors who are set to field an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.