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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his performance is remarkable for all the poor factors. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, nor achieved a league finish as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, specifically the current version of Tottenham.

Life, though, is rarely so straightforward. In spite of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, he leaves behind a squad in a far better condition than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding United as the finest team they had played against in some time. The football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.

While it is hard to contest the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable records—his demise was finally hindered by terrible fortune. Had injuries to key personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other essential figures, he may remain in the job—possibly thriving.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively positive scenario. Star players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the African tournament. Merely sensible management of this talented roster is expected to be enough to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

The home side, though, are unlikely to roll over. Despite boasting only 12 points and having lost three of their last five outings, their displays have often been more impressive than the results suggest. Head coach Parker will surely have his team pumped up to get after United who are set to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have not used for over a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.