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Ruben Amorim's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the wrong causes. Throughout the Premier League era, no United manager has managed fewer points per game, nor achieved a final position as poor as the 15th spot. Delving further back, 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 notoriously etched his name in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Life, but, is not often so black and white. Despite the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a squad in a far better condition than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck relayed that fellow players were lauding United as the best team they had encountered in some time. Their football in a thrilling four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is tough to argue against the termination—especially given it was allegedly triggered by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable track records—Amorim's exit was ultimately hampered by awful luck. If fitness issues for vital stars not occurred alongside the absence of other pivotal figures, he might remain in the job—perhaps even.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Darren Fletcher takes over a fairly positive situation. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the African tournament. Simply sensible husbandry of this gifted roster is expected to be sufficient to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—most likely in the prestigious Champions League.

The Clarets' Daunting Test

The home side, though, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite boasting only twelve points and losing three of their last five matches, their performances have at times been more impressive than the outcomes indicate. Head coach Scott Parker will surely have his team revved up to attack the visitors who are set to play an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a setup they have not used for more than a year.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.