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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable disappointment. By any measure, his performance is remarkable for all the wrong factors. Throughout the contemporary football age, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, or achieved a standing as disappointing as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he notoriously carved a niche in club lore by suffering a final loss to Tottenham, specifically the current version of the North London club.

The game, however, is rarely so black and white. Despite the negative press of his favored system, Amorim leaves behind a team in a significantly improved position than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were lauding their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had played against in a while. Their play in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his remarks regarding superiors with even worse track records—Amorim's demise was finally hampered by awful luck. If the absence of key stars not coincided with the loss of other important individuals, he could remain in the position—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a relatively positive scenario. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the Afcon. Just prudent management of this skilled roster ought to be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite boasting only 12 points and losing 3 of their last five outings, their performances have often been more impressive than the scorelines show. Boss Scott Parker will surely have his team pumped up to get after the visitors who are expected to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, arranged in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.