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Amorim's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the negative causes. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved fewer points per game, nor managed a league finish as poor as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who lost a greater proportion of matches. Furthermore, he famously secured a place in club lore by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, namely Ange Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Football, however, is seldom so black and white. Despite the scrutiny of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a far better position than the one he took over. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing their opponents as the best team they had faced in a while. The play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

While it is hard to argue against the termination—especially given it was said to be triggered by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable records—his exit was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. Had injuries to vital players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other essential members, he might remain in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a relatively positive state of affairs. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent stewardship of this skilled squad is expected to be adequate to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for the following term—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Test

The home side, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five games, their performances have at times been more impressive than the results indicate. Boss Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to get after United who are expected to field an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, set up in a setup they have been denied for a year or more.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.