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The former manager's time at the Red Devils was widely regarded as a notable letdown. Looking at the numbers, his performance is notable for all the negative reasons. In the contemporary football age, no boss at the club has managed a worse points return, or managed a standing as low as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of games. Furthermore, he famously etched his name in United's annals by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham, particularly Ange Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.

The game, though, is seldom that simple. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a club in a much stronger state than that which he found. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck relayed that fellow players were hailing United as the most impressive side they had faced in some time. Their performance in a thrilling high-scoring tie with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Even though it is difficult to argue against the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable track records—his demise was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. Had injuries to key personnel not coincided with the loss of other essential figures, he might remain in the job—perhaps succeeding.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Fletcher inherits a fairly positive scenario. Key players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent management of this talented squad should be enough to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—most likely in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Tough Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, won't roll over. Although having only 12 points and having lost three of their previous five games, their displays have often been better than the results suggest. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad revved up to attack opponents who are expected to start an lineup that has never played together, set up in a setup they have been denied for a year or more.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.