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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a major failure. Statistically speaking, his record stands out for all the poor causes. During the contemporary football age, not a single Man Utd boss has achieved a lower points average, or achieved a standing as poor as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, namely the current iteration of Spurs.

The game, but, is rarely that simple. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, he exits a squad in a far better condition than that which he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing United as the most impressive side they had faced in some time. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

Although it is tough to dispute the termination—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of executives with even worse records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. If the absence of key stars not coincided with the loss of other pivotal members, he could still be in the position—perhaps thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a reasonably solid scenario. Important figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible stewardship of this skilled squad ought to be adequate to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for next season—most likely in the coveted European Cup.

Burnley's Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, however, will not roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five outings, their performances have frequently been more impressive than the scorelines show. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to get after opponents who are set to field an starting eleven that has never played together, arranged in a system they have been denied for over a year.

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