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The former manager's spell at Old Trafford was widely regarded as a significant letdown. By any measure, his performance stands out for all the negative factors. In the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a lower points average, or secured a final position as low as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Additionally, he famously etched his name in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Spurs, particularly the current version of the North London club.

The game, though, is not often so black and white. In spite of the negative press of his favored system, the Portuguese manager exits a club in a significantly improved state than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, the striker Welbeck shared that his colleagues were lauding United as the finest team they had encountered in a while. Their football in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with Bournemouth was equally promising and thrilling.

Even though it is difficult to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his criticism of superiors with poorer histories—his demise was finally stymied by atrocious fortune. If the absence of crucial stars not happened at the same time as the loss of other important individuals, he might remain in the role—possibly thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively stable state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply sensible husbandry of this gifted group is expected to be adequate to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental football for the following term—probably in the coveted Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although boasting only twelve points and having lost three of their previous five outings, their showings have at times been more impressive than the scorelines show. Manager Scott Parker will certainly have his side pumped up to attack the visitors who are set to field an XI that has not had time to gel, arranged in a formation they have gone without for more than a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.