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The former manager's spell at Manchester United was widely regarded as a significant letdown. By any measure, his record is remarkable for all the negative causes. In the Premier League era, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, nor secured a league finish as disappointing as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a greater proportion of games. Moreover, he infamously etched his name in the team's history by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

The game, however, is seldom that simple. In spite of the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a squad in a significantly improved state than the one he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck relayed that fellow players were lauding their opponents as the finest team they had played against in some time. Their performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

While it is tough to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly triggered by his remarks regarding superiors with even worse records—his downfall was ultimately stymied by atrocious fortune. Had the absence of crucial stars not coincided with the unavailability of other essential members, he may remain in the position—possibly succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

As a result, the interim boss Fletcher inherits a relatively stable state of affairs. Important players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply sensible management of this skilled squad should be sufficient to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Test

Vincent Kompany's team, however, won't roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and suffering defeats in three of their most recent five outings, their showings have frequently been better than the outcomes suggest. Head coach Parker will surely have his squad fired up to get after the visitors who are set to start an lineup that has lacked cohesion, set up in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.