🔗 Share this article The Clarets Face Off Against United in Pivotal Top-Flight Encounter Amorim's tenure at Old Trafford has been labeled a major failure. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the negative reasons. During the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a lower points average, nor managed a final position as disappointing as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of fixtures. Moreover, he notoriously carved a niche in United's annals by experiencing a loss in a final to Tottenham, specifically Ange Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham. The game, however, is seldom so straightforward. Regardless of the criticism of his 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim departs from a club in a far better state than that which he found. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were hailing their opponents as the most impressive opposition they had played against in a while. Their play in a thrilling four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling. While it is hard to dispute the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his comments about bosses with more miserable records—his exit was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. If injuries to crucial stars not occurred alongside the absence of other important figures, he could remain in the role—maybe succeeding. A New Era Begins As a result, Darren Fletcher takes over a fairly stable state of affairs. Star players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just careful management of this gifted roster should be enough to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League. The Clarets' Tough Task The home side, however, will not be a pushover. Even with having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five outings, their displays have often been stronger than the scorelines show. Head coach Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad pumped up to attack opponents who are expected to play an starting eleven that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year. Start time: 8.15pm GMT.