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The former manager's spell at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his results stands out for all the wrong reasons. During the contemporary football age, no United manager has achieved a lower points average, nor managed a league finish as disappointing as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a higher percentage of games. Additionally, he infamously carved a niche in the team's history by experiencing a cup final defeat to Tottenham, namely the current version of the North London club.

Life, however, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the scrutiny of his favored system, he leaves behind a club in a much stronger state than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding United as the best team they had played against in a long time. Their football in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

Even though it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of executives with even worse track records—Amorim's downfall was in the end stymied by terrible fortune. Had the absence of vital personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other essential figures, he could remain in the position—possibly succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively stable situation. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible stewardship of this gifted squad should be enough to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for next season—probably in the coveted European Cup.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

The home side, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with boasting only twelve points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five games, their displays have at times been stronger than the outcomes show. Head coach Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to attack opponents who are set to start an XI that has not had time to gel, set up in a setup they have not used for over a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.