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Ruben Amorim's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable disappointment. By any measure, his results is remarkable for all the wrong reasons. In the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a worse points return, or achieved a league finish as disappointing as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he famously secured a place in club lore by suffering a final loss to Spurs, specifically the current iteration of Tottenham.

Football, but, is not often so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager exits a squad in a much stronger state than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were lauding their opponents as the most impressive team they had played against in a long time. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exhilarating.

Even though it is difficult to contest the termination—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his comments about bosses with more miserable records—his downfall was ultimately hindered by terrible luck. Had the absence of crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important individuals, he might still be in the job—possibly even.

A New Era Begins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a reasonably stable state of affairs. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the African tournament. Just sensible management of this skilled group should be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Task

Burnley, though, won't roll over. Although having only twelve points and having lost three of their previous five games, their showings have often been better than the results show. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to attack opponents who are likely to field an lineup that has not had time to gel, arranged in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.

Kick-off: 8:15 in the evening GMT.