🔗 Share this article

Ruben Amorim's time at the Red Devils has been labeled a notable letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the poor reasons. Throughout the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has achieved a worse points return, nor managed a final position as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of games. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, namely the current version of the North London club.

The game, but, is not often that simple. Despite the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he exits a squad in a far better condition than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that his colleagues were lauding their opponents as the most impressive side they had played against in some time. Their play in a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

Although it is tough to argue against the termination—especially given it was said to be caused by his criticism of bosses with poorer track records—his demise was finally hampered by terrible fortune. Had the absence of crucial personnel not occurred alongside the loss of other essential members, he may still be in the position—maybe succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a reasonably solid scenario. Star figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just careful management of this talented group is expected to be enough to secure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the following term—in all likelihood in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Challenge

The home side, however, won't roll over. Although boasting only 12 points and losing three of their most recent five outings, their showings have at times been more impressive than the scorelines show. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his squad pumped up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, set up in a system they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.