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Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his performance is remarkable for all the poor factors. During the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has managed a lower points average, or achieved a league finish as disappointing as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of games. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in the team's history by suffering a final loss to Tottenham, specifically the current version of the North London club.

Life, but, is seldom so straightforward. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a far better state than the one he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck shared that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the finest team they had played against in some time. Their football in a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Even though it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be triggered by his criticism of superiors with more miserable histories—Amorim's downfall was in the end stymied by terrible luck. If the absence of key personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other essential figures, he may still be in the position—perhaps thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Darren Fletcher takes over a fairly positive state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the African tournament. Just sensible stewardship of this talented group is expected to be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—in all likelihood in the elite Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Task

Burnley, but, are unlikely to make things easy. Despite boasting only a dozen points and having lost 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have often been more impressive than the outcomes indicate. Boss Scott Parker will surely have his side revved up to get after the visitors who are set to start an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a formation they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.