The Clarets Clash With Manchester United in Key English Top Division Fixture

Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a major failure. Looking at the numbers, his results is remarkable for all the wrong reasons. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has managed fewer points per game, or secured a standing as disappointing as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who lost a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he famously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a final loss to Tottenham, namely the current side of Tottenham.

Football, however, is seldom so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a much stronger condition than that which he found. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that fellow players were hailing United as the best team they had faced in a long time. The football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with even worse records—Amorim's downfall was finally stymied by terrible luck. If the absence of key players not happened at the same time as the loss of other essential members, he might still be in the role—possibly thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a reasonably positive state of affairs. Star figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible stewardship of this skilled roster ought to be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Even with having only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their last five games, their performances have often been more impressive than the scorelines show. Boss Parker will certainly have his squad fired up to get after the visitors who are expected to start an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have been denied for a year or more.

Start time: 20:15 GMT.