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Ruben Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. By any measure, his record is remarkable for all the poor causes. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a worse points return, or managed 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 lost a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a final loss to Spurs, particularly Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

Football, but, is not often that simple. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a team in a much stronger position than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding United as the finest side they had faced in a while. Their performance in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and thrilling.

Even though it is hard to contest the dismissal—especially given it was said to be triggered by his criticism of superiors with poorer records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by awful luck. If injuries to crucial stars not coincided with the unavailability of other essential individuals, he could still be in the role—perhaps succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a reasonably stable situation. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Simply prudent husbandry of this skilled group should be sufficient to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

Burnley, but, are unlikely to make things easy. Despite having only a dozen points and losing three of their previous five outings, their showings have often been stronger than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to attack opponents who are set to play an XI that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.