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Amorim's spell at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a major disappointment. Statistically speaking, his performance is notable for all the poor causes. Throughout the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded fewer points per game, nor managed a standing as disappointing as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who lost a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he famously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, namely the current side of Tottenham.

Life, but, is rarely that simple. Despite the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim departs from a team in a significantly improved position than the one he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding United as the best opposition they had faced in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exciting.

Although it is hard to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly caused by his comments about executives with poorer histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately stymied by terrible fortune. If the absence of vital players not happened at the same time as the loss of other important individuals, he could still be in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively positive scenario. Key players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Merely prudent management of this skilled group ought to be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for the following term—probably in the elite European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Test

The home side, though, will not be a pushover. Despite having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five games, their displays have at times been more impressive than the outcomes show. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to take the game to United who are likely to start an XI that has never played together, deployed in a formation they have gone without for over a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.