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The former manager's time at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. By any measure, his record is notable for all the negative reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no United manager has managed a worse points return, or secured a standing as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Additionally, he infamously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Football, though, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim exits a team in a much stronger condition than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding United as the best team they had encountered in a long time. Their performance in a thrilling 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Even though it is tough to argue against the termination—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with poorer track records—his demise was ultimately hampered by awful fortune. If the absence of crucial personnel not occurred alongside the absence of other important members, he could still be in the position—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher takes over a relatively positive situation. Important figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Afcon. Merely prudent husbandry of this talented squad should be enough to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—probably in the prestigious European Cup.

The Clarets' Tough Test

The home side, however, will not roll over. Although having only 12 points and having lost three of their most recent five matches, their displays have frequently been stronger than the outcomes suggest. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to attack United who are set to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.