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The former manager's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable failure. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the negative reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or secured a standing as poor as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Additionally, he notoriously secured a place in United's annals by experiencing a cup final defeat to Spurs, namely the current side of Spurs.

The game, but, is seldom so straightforward. Regardless of the criticism of his favored system, Amorim leaves behind a squad in a far better position than the one he found. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had played against in a while. The football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his criticism of bosses with even worse track records—Amorim's exit was in the end hampered by awful fortune. Had fitness issues for vital players not coincided with the unavailability of other essential members, he might still be in the position—maybe thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Darren Fletcher inherits a reasonably positive scenario. Key players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Afcon. Merely sensible stewardship of this gifted squad ought to be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for next season—in all likelihood in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Challenge

Burnley, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have often been stronger than the outcomes indicate. Head coach Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to take the game to the visitors who are set to start an lineup that has never played together, set up in a setup they have been denied for over a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.