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The former manager's tenure at Manchester United has been labeled a major letdown. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the poor reasons. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has managed fewer points per game, or secured a final position as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Life, though, is rarely that simple. In spite of the negative press of his tactical approach, he exits a squad in a much stronger position than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising United as the most impressive opposition they had played against in some time. The play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and exciting.

Even though it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was reportedly triggered by his criticism of superiors with even worse records—Amorim's downfall was finally hindered by atrocious luck. Had the absence of crucial players not coincided with the unavailability of other essential members, he might still be in the role—maybe thriving.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a fairly positive situation. Important figures like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Afcon. Just sensible husbandry of this talented group should be sufficient to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, though, won't roll over. Even with boasting only a dozen points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five games, their showings have frequently been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Boss Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to attack the visitors who are likely to field an lineup that has not had time to gel, deployed in a formation they have not used for more than a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.