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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United has been labeled a significant failure. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the negative factors. In the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded a worse points return, or managed a standing as poor as the 15th spot. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he notoriously secured a place in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham, specifically Postecoglou's version of Spurs.

Life, but, is rarely that simple. Despite the negative press of his favored system, he leaves behind a squad in a significantly improved position than the one he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck shared that teammates were lauding United as the most impressive side they had faced in some time. The play in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exhilarating.

Although it is tough to argue against the termination—particularly given it was said to be sparked by his criticism of bosses with poorer histories—Amorim's demise was in the end hampered by atrocious luck. If injuries to crucial stars not coincided with the loss of other essential members, he might still be in the job—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher inherits a relatively stable state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply careful management of this talented roster should be adequate to secure a top-five finish and, with it, European competition for next season—probably in the coveted European Cup.

Burnley's Daunting Test

Burnley, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with having only a dozen points and losing 3 of their most recent five outings, their performances have frequently been stronger than the scorelines indicate. Manager Parker will certainly have his side fired up to take the game to opponents who are expected to field an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, deployed in a setup they have not used for a year or more.

Start time: 8.15pm GMT.