The Clarets Face Off Against United in Crucial Top-Flight Match

The former manager's time at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a notable disappointment. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the poor reasons. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, or achieved a league finish as disappointing as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of games. Additionally, he famously secured a place in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's side of Tottenham.

Football, though, is rarely so straightforward. Regardless of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager exits a squad in a significantly improved condition than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising their opponents as the best side they had faced in a long time. The play in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful 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 bosses with poorer histories—Amorim's exit was finally stymied by awful luck. Had fitness issues for crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the loss of other pivotal members, he could still be in the role—perhaps thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a relatively positive state of affairs. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible husbandry of this gifted squad is expected to be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Burnley, however, won't be a pushover. Despite having only twelve points and losing 3 of their last five matches, their displays have at times been more impressive than the outcomes suggest. Boss Parker will certainly have his team fired up to take the game to United who are set to play an XI that has never played together, set up in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.