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The former manager's spell at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a significant disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his performance stands out for all the poor factors. In the Premier League era, no United manager has managed fewer points per game, nor secured a final position as low as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he famously secured a place in the team's history by enduring a loss in a final to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Postecoglou's side of the North London club.

Life, but, is seldom so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his favored system, he departs from a squad in a significantly improved state than the one he inherited. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton, Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding United as the finest side they had faced in some time. The performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

While it is difficult to dispute the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable histories—Amorim's exit was in the end hampered by atrocious luck. If injuries to key personnel not occurred alongside the loss of other important figures, he could still be in the position—maybe thriving.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively stable situation. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely prudent husbandry of this gifted squad is expected to be sufficient to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for next season—probably in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with having only twelve points and losing 3 of their most recent five games, their showings have at times been stronger than the scorelines suggest. Manager Parker will surely have his side fired up to attack the visitors who are expected to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, arranged in a system they have not used for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.