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Amorim's tenure at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable letdown. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the poor factors. During the Premier League era, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or managed a standing as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he famously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, particularly the current iteration of the North London club.

The game, though, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a club in a significantly improved state than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck reported that fellow players were hailing United as the most impressive side they had encountered in some time. Their performance in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is hard to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was reportedly caused by his criticism of executives with poorer histories—his demise was ultimately stymied by awful luck. Had injuries to vital players not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other essential members, he might remain in the position—possibly even.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly solid scenario. Star figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Just prudent husbandry of this skilled roster should be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the coveted European Cup.

The Clarets' Daunting Challenge

The home side, however, are unlikely to roll over. Although boasting only 12 points and having lost 3 of their most recent five games, their performances have frequently been more impressive than the results indicate. Boss Parker will certainly have his team fired up to get after the visitors who are set to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have not used for over a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.