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The former manager's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the poor reasons. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has recorded a worse points return, or achieved a league finish as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he famously etched his name in the team's history by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham, specifically the current side of Tottenham.

The game, though, is not often so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a club in a much stronger state than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing United as the most impressive team they had played against in some time. The play in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Although it is tough to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be caused by his criticism of superiors with more miserable track records—his downfall was in the end hampered by awful fortune. If injuries to crucial stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other important figures, he could remain in the role—possibly even.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a fairly positive state of affairs. Key figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible stewardship of this skilled squad ought to be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

Burnley, though, will not make things easy. Despite having only twelve points and losing three of their most recent five games, their displays have frequently been better than the scorelines indicate. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his team pumped up to attack opponents who are set to field an lineup that has never played together, deployed in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.