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The former manager's tenure at the Red Devils has been labeled a notable letdown. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the wrong causes. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who lost a greater proportion of games. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by enduring a final loss to Spurs, namely Ange Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Football, however, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a squad in a much stronger state than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding their opponents as the best opposition they had faced in a long time. The play in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with more miserable track records—Amorim's demise was ultimately hampered by awful fortune. Had the absence of vital stars not occurred alongside the absence of other important individuals, he could still be in the job—possibly succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly stable scenario. Star players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the African tournament. Simply sensible stewardship of this talented group is expected to be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

The home side, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their showings have often been more impressive than the outcomes show. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to take the game to opponents who are expected to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have not used for a year or more.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.