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The former manager's time at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his record is notable for all the wrong factors. During the contemporary football age, no United manager has achieved fewer points per game, or managed a league finish as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to go back to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a United boss who lost a greater proportion of games. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, specifically the current version of Tottenham.

Football, but, is not often so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his favored system, he exits a club in a much stronger condition than that which he took over. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that teammates were lauding their opponents as the best side they had played against in a long time. Their play in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.

Even though it is tough to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of bosses with even worse track records—his downfall was in the end hampered by terrible luck. If fitness issues for crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important individuals, he could still be in the position—possibly thriving.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a fairly solid scenario. Key players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Afcon. Just careful management of this skilled roster ought to be sufficient to guarantee a top-five finish and, with it, European football for next season—most likely in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Tough Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to roll over. Although boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their previous five matches, their performances have often been stronger than the outcomes indicate. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his side revved up to attack the visitors who are set to field an XI that has never played together, deployed in a system they have been denied for more than a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.