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Amorim's time at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable letdown. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the negative factors. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has managed a lower points average, or achieved a standing as low as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Football, however, is seldom so straightforward. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim leaves behind a club in a much stronger state than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were hailing United as the best opposition they had encountered in some time. Their performance in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

While it is hard to contest the dismissal—especially given it was reportedly sparked by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his exit was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. If fitness issues for crucial personnel not coincided with the loss of other essential members, he may remain in the position—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a reasonably stable scenario. Important players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Afcon. Merely prudent stewardship of this talented squad should be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

The home side, though, won't make things easy. Despite having only 12 points and losing 3 of their most recent five games, their performances have frequently been better than the results show. Head coach Parker will surely have his team pumped up to get after opponents who are set to start an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a setup they have not used for over a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.