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Ruben Amorim's tenure at Manchester United has been labeled a major disappointment. By any measure, his record stands out for all the poor causes. In the contemporary football age, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, nor secured a final position as poor 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 matches. Furthermore, he famously carved a niche in United's annals by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly the current version of Tottenham.

Life, but, is seldom so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he leaves behind a team in a much stronger condition than the one he took over. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were hailing their opponents as the finest team they had played against in some time. The performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exhilarating.

Even though it is hard to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was said to be triggered by his criticism of bosses with more miserable track records—Amorim's exit was in the end stymied by awful luck. Had fitness issues for vital personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other essential individuals, he may remain in the position—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Darren Fletcher takes over a fairly solid scenario. Key figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future be back from the Afcon. Just prudent husbandry of this gifted squad is expected to be enough to secure a top-five finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, however, are unlikely to be a pushover. Despite having only 12 points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their displays have often been better than the scorelines indicate. Manager Parker will surely have his team pumped up to get after United who are likely to play an starting eleven that has never played together, arranged in a formation they have not used for more than a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.