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Ruben Amorim's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his results stands out for all the poor causes. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a standing as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of games. Moreover, he notoriously etched his name in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, namely the current side of the North London club.

The game, but, is rarely so straightforward. In spite of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim exits a squad in a much stronger condition than that which he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in some time. The football in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

While it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of executives with more miserable track records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by awful fortune. Had injuries to vital stars not occurred alongside the unavailability of other essential figures, he may still be in the job—possibly succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively stable scenario. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Afcon. Just prudent management of this skilled roster should be adequate to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for next season—probably in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, however, won't be a pushover. Although boasting only 12 points and having lost 3 of their previous five games, their performances have often been more impressive than the scorelines suggest. Manager Scott Parker will surely have his team fired up to get after opponents who are set to field an XI that has never played together, set up in a system they have not used for over a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.