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Amorim's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major failure. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the poor reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, or secured a league finish as poor as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he notoriously secured a place in club lore by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Life, however, is seldom so black and white. Regardless of the criticism of his favored system, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a far better position than that which he inherited. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding United as the finest side they had played against in a while. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.

While it is difficult to dispute the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly triggered by his comments about superiors with more miserable track records—Amorim's demise was in the end hindered by atrocious luck. If injuries to crucial players not happened at the same time as the absence of other essential members, he might still be in the job—possibly even.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a relatively stable scenario. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the Afcon. Just careful management of this talented group should be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Challenge

Burnley, however, won't be a pushover. Although having only 12 points and having lost 3 of their last five matches, their showings have at times been stronger than the outcomes indicate. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his squad pumped up to attack the visitors who are set to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.