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The former manager's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the negative factors. Throughout the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, or secured a league finish as disappointing as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who lost a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he famously etched his name in club lore by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly Ange Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, however, is not often that simple. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, Amorim leaves behind a squad in a significantly improved position than that which he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, the striker Welbeck relayed that fellow players were hailing United as the finest team they had played against in some time. The play in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

Although it is hard to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was allegedly triggered by his criticism of superiors with more miserable histories—Amorim's demise was finally hindered by terrible fortune. Had fitness issues for vital personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal members, he could still be in the role—maybe succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Fletcher steps into a reasonably positive situation. Key figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Afcon. Merely careful stewardship of this gifted roster should be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

Burnley, however, will not roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their last five games, their performances have frequently been stronger than the outcomes show. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his squad revved up to get after the visitors who are expected to play an starting eleven that has never played together, arranged in a formation they have gone without for a year or more.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.