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The former manager's spell at the Red Devils is considered by many to have been a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record stands out for all the negative causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no United manager has managed fewer points per game, nor secured a final position as low as the 15th spot. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Additionally, he famously etched his name in United's annals by suffering a final loss to Spurs, specifically the current side of Spurs.

Football, though, is rarely so straightforward. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a team in a far better position than the one he inherited. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton, Danny Welbeck reported that fellow players were praising their opponents as the most impressive team they had faced in some time. Their play in a exhilarating 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was both encouraging and exhilarating.

Even though it is hard to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his comments about bosses with even worse records—his exit was in the end stymied by atrocious luck. If injuries to key stars not happened at the same time as the absence of other important figures, he may still be in the role—maybe thriving.

Fresh Start for United

Therefore, Fletcher inherits a relatively solid state of affairs. Star players like Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the African tournament. Merely sensible husbandry of this skilled squad ought to be adequate to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—most likely in the elite UEFA Champions League.

The Clarets' Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, won't be a pushover. Although having only twelve points and losing three of their previous five outings, their performances have frequently been more impressive than the outcomes show. Boss Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to attack opponents who are expected to play an lineup that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Match begins: 20:15 GMT.