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Amorim's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a major failure. By any measure, his record is remarkable for all the negative reasons. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has recorded fewer points per game, or managed a standing as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he famously etched his name in United's annals by enduring a final loss to Tottenham, particularly the current version of the North London club.

Life, however, is not often that simple. In spite of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a club in a far better state than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the finest team they had played against in some time. The football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exciting.

While it is tough to contest the termination—especially given it was reportedly triggered by his comments about superiors with poorer histories—his demise was in the end hampered by awful fortune. If the absence of vital players not happened at the same time as the loss of other essential individuals, he might remain in the position—perhaps thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly positive state of affairs. Key figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent management of this gifted squad ought to be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the elite Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Task

Burnley, but, are unlikely to roll over. Despite having only twelve points and losing three of their previous five games, their displays have frequently been more impressive than the scorelines indicate. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to get after the visitors who are set to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.