The Clarets Take On Manchester United in Key Top-Flight Fixture

Amorim's time at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable failure. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the poor causes. During the contemporary football age, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, or achieved a final position as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, namely Ange Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

The game, but, is not often that simple. Despite the negative press of his favored system, he exits a club in a much stronger position than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest team they had encountered in a long time. Their football in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

Even though it is hard to argue against the termination—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of superiors with even worse track records—Amorim's demise was finally hampered by awful fortune. If injuries to crucial players not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal figures, he could still be in the role—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Fletcher inherits a reasonably solid state of affairs. Important players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon return from the African tournament. Simply prudent management of this gifted group should be adequate to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for next season—probably in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Task

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to roll over. Despite boasting only a dozen points and having lost three of their most recent five games, their displays have at times been stronger than the outcomes suggest. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to attack opponents who are likely to play an starting eleven that has never played together, deployed in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.