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Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the poor reasons. Throughout the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has recorded fewer points per game, nor achieved a final position as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham, namely Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, but, is not often so straightforward. In spite of the scrutiny of his tactical approach, he exits a squad in a much stronger condition than the one he found. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had faced in some time. The performance in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Even though it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly triggered by his comments about superiors with even worse records—his exit was finally hampered by terrible luck. Had the absence of key players not occurred alongside the absence of other pivotal individuals, he might remain in the role—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a reasonably solid scenario. Key players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Simply prudent stewardship of this gifted roster ought to be sufficient to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for the following term—most likely in the coveted European Cup.

Burnley's Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and having lost 3 of their previous five games, their displays have at times been stronger than the results show. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his side revved up to attack opponents who are set to start an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, set up in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.