Burnley Take On Man United in Key English Top Division Match

Ruben Amorim's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a major disappointment. Statistically speaking, his results is remarkable for all the wrong causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no United manager has recorded a worse points return, or managed a standing as poor as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who was defeated in a greater proportion of matches. Moreover, he famously carved a niche in United's annals by enduring a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, specifically the current side of Tottenham.

The game, but, is seldom so black and white. Regardless of the scrutiny of his favored system, he exits a club in a far better condition than the one he took over. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Welbeck shared that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the most impressive team they had played against in some time. The performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally promising and exhilarating.

While it is difficult to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was said to be sparked by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his exit was ultimately hindered by awful luck. If fitness issues for crucial stars not happened at the same time as the absence of other pivotal individuals, he could remain in the role—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

As a result, Darren Fletcher steps into a reasonably solid scenario. Star players like Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible husbandry of this skilled roster ought to be sufficient to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for next season—in all likelihood in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Test

The home side, however, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their most recent five matches, their displays have frequently been better than the outcomes suggest. Head coach Scott Parker will surely have his team fired up to attack United who are set to play an starting eleven that has lacked cohesion, deployed in a system they have not used for a year or more.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.