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Amorim's spell at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his performance is remarkable for all the poor reasons. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed fewer points per game, or managed a standing as disappointing as 15th in the table. Delving further back, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in club lore by enduring a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

Football, however, is seldom so black and white. Despite the scrutiny of his tactical approach, Amorim leaves behind a team in a much stronger state than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the best opposition they had encountered in a long time. The play in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and exciting.

Although it is hard to contest the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of superiors with poorer records—Amorim's downfall was in the end stymied by atrocious fortune. Had fitness issues for key stars not coincided with the unavailability of other important individuals, he may remain in the role—possibly even.

A New Era Begins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher steps into a reasonably solid situation. Important players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Just careful stewardship of this talented squad should be sufficient to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

The home side, but, will not be a pushover. Even with having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in three of their most recent five outings, their showings have often been stronger than the results indicate. Boss Scott Parker will certainly have his team revved up to take the game to opponents who are likely to start an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have not used for over a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.