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Amorim's spell at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the poor reasons. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded fewer points per game, nor managed a final position as disappointing as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of games. Furthermore, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically the current version of Tottenham.

Life, however, is seldom that simple. Despite the scrutiny of his favored system, he leaves behind a club in a significantly improved condition than the one he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing United as the most impressive team they had played against in a long time. The performance in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exciting.

Although it is hard to dispute the decision to sack him—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his criticism of executives with more miserable track records—his downfall was ultimately stymied by awful luck. If the absence of key stars not happened at the same time as the absence of other pivotal members, he could remain in the job—perhaps succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher takes over a reasonably positive state of affairs. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Merely sensible stewardship of this skilled squad ought to be enough to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for the following term—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to make things easy. Although having only a dozen points and losing three of their previous five matches, their performances have frequently been better than the outcomes indicate. Manager Parker will surely have his squad revved up to take the game to opponents who are set to field an lineup that has not had time to gel, arranged in a formation they have not used for over a year.

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