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The former manager's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable failure. Looking at the numbers, his results is remarkable for all the poor reasons. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has managed a worse points return, nor managed a league finish as poor as 15th in the table. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in club lore by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Football, though, is not often so black and white. In spite of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he exits a club in a far better condition than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were praising their opponents as the best opposition they had faced in some time. Their performance in a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both encouraging and thrilling.

Even though it is tough to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be triggered by his comments about bosses with poorer histories—Amorim's exit was ultimately hindered by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to vital players not coincided with the unavailability of other important figures, he may still be in the job—perhaps thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a fairly stable situation. Key players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible stewardship of this talented roster is expected to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for the following term—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

The home side, but, will not be a pushover. Although having only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five games, their displays have at times been better than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to attack the visitors who are likely to play an XI that has never played together, set up in a setup they have gone without for over a year.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.