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Amorim's tenure at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the poor causes. Throughout the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed a lower points average, or achieved a final position as poor as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who lost a greater proportion of matches. Furthermore, he infamously secured a place in the team's history by suffering a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

The game, but, is seldom so black and white. Despite the negative press of his tactical approach, Amorim departs from a team in a far better state than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the most impressive team they had played against in a while. Their football in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both encouraging and exciting.

While it is tough to contest the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding superiors with more miserable track records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by atrocious fortune. If injuries to vital stars not coincided with the absence of other pivotal members, he may remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively stable situation. Key players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply prudent stewardship of this gifted roster should be adequate to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Challenge

Burnley, though, will not make things easy. Although boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five outings, their showings have often been stronger than the scorelines show. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his team revved up to take the game to United who are likely to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, deployed in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.