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The former manager's spell at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major disappointment. By any measure, his performance stands out for all the negative causes. In the modern top-flight period, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, or achieved a league finish as low as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a United boss who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he notoriously secured a place in club lore by enduring a final loss to Spurs, particularly the current side of the North London club.

Life, but, is rarely that simple. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a team in a much stronger position than the one he found. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were praising their opponents as the finest opposition they had encountered in a long time. The performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both hopeful and exciting.

Although it is hard to argue against the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly caused by his criticism of superiors with even worse track records—his exit was in the end hampered by atrocious luck. Had fitness issues for crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the loss of other important members, he may still be in the role—perhaps succeeding.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively positive scenario. Key figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just prudent stewardship of this skilled squad should be sufficient to ensure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—probably in the elite Champions League.

Burnley's Formidable Task

Vincent Kompany's team, but, won't make things easy. Although having only 12 points and suffering defeats in 3 of their last five matches, their displays have frequently been stronger than the scorelines indicate. Head coach Parker will certainly have his squad revved up to take the game to United who are likely to field an lineup that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.