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Ruben Amorim's tenure at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable failure. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the poor causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, nor achieved a standing as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a larger share of fixtures. Furthermore, he famously secured a place in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, namely Postecoglou's iteration of the North London club.

Football, however, is not often so black and white. Regardless of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim departs from a squad in a much stronger position than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were praising United as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

While it is difficult to argue against the termination—especially given it was reportedly caused by his remarks regarding executives with even worse histories—Amorim's demise was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. Had injuries to crucial players not occurred alongside the loss of other pivotal figures, he could still be in the job—possibly succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Darren Fletcher steps into a relatively solid situation. Key players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible husbandry of this talented squad is expected to be adequate to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Task

The home side, but, will not make things easy. Although having only a dozen points and having lost three of their previous five games, their displays have at times been more impressive than the results suggest. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his team pumped up to take the game to the visitors who are likely to play an XI that has never played together, set up in a setup they have been denied for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.