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Ruben Amorim's time at Manchester United has been labeled a notable failure. Statistically speaking, his record is remarkable for all the poor causes. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded fewer points per game, or secured a standing as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a larger share of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously secured a place in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Football, but, is seldom that simple. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he exits a club in a much stronger position than the one he found. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing their opponents as the most impressive team they had played against in a while. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exhilarating.

Although it is tough to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly caused by his remarks regarding superiors with even worse track records—Amorim's exit was finally stymied by terrible luck. Had injuries to key players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other important figures, he may still be in the job—possibly succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively stable situation. Key players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Afcon. Just prudent husbandry of this skilled roster is expected to be enough to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the following term—probably in the coveted European Cup.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Burnley, however, won't be a pushover. Despite having only 12 points and losing three of their previous five matches, their performances have at times been stronger than the results show. Boss Scott Parker will surely have his squad pumped up to attack opponents who are set to start an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.