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The former manager's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his performance stands out for all the negative reasons. During the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded a lower points average, or secured a league finish as low as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of matches. Additionally, he famously secured a place in United's annals by experiencing a loss in a final to Spurs, particularly the current version of the North London club.

Football, though, is not often so straightforward. Despite the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager departs from a team in a far better position than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that his colleagues were praising United as the best opposition they had played against in a long time. The play in a breathtaking high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and thrilling.

While it is hard to contest the termination—particularly given it was allegedly triggered by his comments about executives with poorer records—his downfall was finally stymied by atrocious fortune. Had the absence of key players not occurred alongside the loss of other important individuals, he may remain in the role—possibly succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively solid situation. Star figures like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent stewardship of this gifted squad should be sufficient to ensure a top-five finish and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—probably in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

The home side, but, won't make things easy. Although boasting only a dozen points and having lost 3 of their last five games, their showings have frequently been better than the results indicate. Head coach Parker will surely have his side revved up to take the game to opponents who are expected to field an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a formation they have not used for a year or more.

Kick-off: 8:15 in the evening GMT.