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The former manager's time at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a notable letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the wrong factors. Throughout the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, or secured a standing as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he infamously secured a place in United's annals by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically the current side of the North London club.

Life, though, is not often so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a team in a much stronger position than that which he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were lauding their opponents as the best team they had encountered in a long time. The play in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exciting.

Although it is difficult to contest the dismissal—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his criticism of executives with even worse histories—his demise was in the end hindered by awful luck. Had the absence of crucial players not happened at the same time as the loss of other important figures, he might remain in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively positive situation. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent husbandry of this skilled squad ought to be sufficient to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the elite Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to roll over. Even with having only 12 points and losing three of their previous five matches, their performances have at times been better than the scorelines show. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to play an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.