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Amorim's spell at the Red Devils has been labeled a significant disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the wrong factors. During the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or secured a final position as disappointing as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he famously etched his name in club lore by suffering a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically the current version of Spurs.

Football, however, is rarely that simple. Regardless of the scrutiny of his favored system, Amorim departs from a squad in a far better position than that which he found. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that teammates were praising United as the best side they had encountered in some time. Their play in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

While it is hard to argue against the termination—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his criticism of executives with even worse histories—Amorim's exit was ultimately hindered by awful luck. If injuries to key stars not happened at the same time as the absence of other important figures, he could remain in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a reasonably positive scenario. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent stewardship of this talented group is expected to be adequate to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

Burnley, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five outings, their performances have at times been more impressive than the outcomes show. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to take the game to opponents who are expected to play an XI that has lacked cohesion, deployed in a system they have not used for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.