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Amorim's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a notable letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the wrong causes. In the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed fewer points per game, nor managed a standing as disappointing as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously secured a place in club lore by enduring a final loss to Tottenham, namely the current side of Tottenham.

Football, but, is seldom that simple. Despite the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a significantly improved state than the one he inherited. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a while. The play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exhilarating.

While it is difficult to dispute the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his comments about executives with even worse histories—Amorim's downfall was finally stymied by awful fortune. Had fitness issues for key stars not coincided with the loss of other essential figures, he might still be in the role—perhaps succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Fletcher takes over a relatively positive state of affairs. Key figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the African tournament. Simply prudent stewardship of this talented group ought to be enough to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

The home side, however, won't roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five games, their showings have frequently been better than the outcomes indicate. Boss Parker will surely have his squad revved up to attack United who are likely to play an XI that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have been denied for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.