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Amorim's time at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results is remarkable for all the poor causes. In the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as poor as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, namely Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Life, but, is not often so straightforward. In spite of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a much stronger state than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a victory over Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the most impressive side they had encountered in some time. Their performance in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly triggered by his criticism of superiors with even worse histories—his demise was finally hampered by awful fortune. If the absence of key personnel not coincided with the absence of other important figures, he may still be in the position—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher takes over a reasonably solid state of affairs. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Just sensible husbandry of this skilled roster ought to be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the elite European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Test

The home side, though, won't make things easy. Although having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five matches, their showings have frequently been more impressive than the outcomes indicate. Head coach Parker will certainly have his side revved up to attack opponents who are likely to play an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, deployed in a setup they have been denied for a year or more.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.