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Ruben Amorim's time at Old Trafford has been labeled a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the poor causes. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a higher percentage of games. Additionally, he infamously secured a place in club lore by suffering a final loss to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's iteration of Spurs.

Football, though, is not often so black and white. Despite the scrutiny of his tactical approach, he leaves behind a team in a far better position than the one he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck relayed that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the finest side they had faced in a long time. Their football in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

Although it is tough to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his criticism of superiors with poorer records—Amorim's demise was ultimately hampered by atrocious luck. If injuries to crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the absence of other essential individuals, he might still be in the position—maybe thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a fairly positive state of affairs. Important players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the African tournament. Simply careful management of this skilled group should be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for next season—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

The home side, but, won't be a pushover. Despite having only a dozen points and having lost 3 of their last five games, their showings have frequently been better than the outcomes show. Manager Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to take the game to the visitors who are likely to play an XI that has lacked cohesion, set up in a setup they have gone without for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.