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Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant failure. Looking at the numbers, his record is notable for all the wrong factors. In the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a worse points return, or managed a standing as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he infamously carved a niche in club lore by enduring a final loss to Spurs, namely the current side of the North London club.

The game, though, is not often that simple. In spite of the scrutiny of his favored system, he exits a team in a significantly improved condition than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had encountered in some time. The performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his remarks regarding superiors with more miserable track records—his exit was ultimately stymied by atrocious luck. Had injuries to key personnel not coincided with the loss of other pivotal individuals, he could remain in the position—possibly succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly stable state of affairs. Important players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the African tournament. Merely sensible husbandry of this gifted group ought to be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Daunting Challenge

The home side, however, will not be a pushover. Despite boasting only a dozen points and having lost 3 of their last five outings, their displays have frequently been stronger than the results suggest. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his team fired up to attack the visitors who are expected to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, set up in a system they have gone without for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.