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Amorim's time at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the wrong factors. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a league finish as low as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a greater proportion of fixtures. Furthermore, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Ange Postecoglou's iteration of Spurs.

Life, but, is seldom so straightforward. In spite of the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he leaves behind a club in a significantly improved position than the one he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had played against in some time. Their play in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exhilarating.

While it is tough to argue against the termination—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his comments about bosses with poorer records—his exit was in the end hindered by terrible fortune. If fitness issues for vital players not occurred alongside the loss of other essential individuals, he might remain in the role—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively solid situation. Key players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible husbandry of this talented squad should be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—in all likelihood in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five matches, their performances have at times been better than the scorelines indicate. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his team pumped up to attack opponents who are likely to start an XI that has not had time to gel, set up in a setup they have gone without for a year or more.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.