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Amorim's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is remarkable for all the negative reasons. In the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded fewer points per game, or managed a final position as disappointing as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he famously etched his name in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, namely the current side of the North London club.

Football, but, is not often so straightforward. Despite the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a team in a far better condition than the one he found. Months ago, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest side they had played against in a long time. The football in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

Even though it is difficult to contest the dismissal—especially given it was said to be sparked by his comments about executives with more miserable histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately hampered by atrocious fortune. Had injuries to crucial players not coincided with the absence of other important individuals, he could still be in the job—perhaps thriving.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher inherits a relatively solid state of affairs. Key figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Merely sensible husbandry of this skilled squad should be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for next season—probably in the elite European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Test

Burnley, but, will not be a pushover. Even with having only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their previous five outings, their displays have at times been better than the outcomes show. Manager Parker will certainly have his side fired up to get after opponents who are expected to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have gone without for over a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.