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The former manager's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major letdown. Looking at the numbers, his performance is remarkable for all the poor factors. During the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded fewer points per game, nor secured a standing as disappointing as 15th in the table. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a larger share of games. Additionally, he famously carved a niche in club lore by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, namely the current side of the North London club.

Life, however, is not often so straightforward. Regardless of the negative press of his tactical approach, he exits a squad in a much stronger state than that which he found. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that teammates were praising United as the best opposition they had played against in a long time. Their play in a exhilarating four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Although it is hard to contest the decision to sack him—particularly given it was reportedly sparked by his criticism of executives with even worse histories—his demise was ultimately hindered by atrocious luck. Had fitness issues for key personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other pivotal members, he may remain in the job—possibly even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Consequently, Darren Fletcher steps into a fairly solid scenario. Important players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just careful management of this skilled group ought to be enough to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, continental competition for next season—probably in the coveted UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Challenge

The home side, though, are unlikely to make things easy. Even with having only twelve points and having lost 3 of their previous five matches, their showings have often been more impressive than the outcomes show. Manager Scott Parker will surely have his team pumped up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to start an XI that has never played together, deployed in a setup they have not used for more than a year.

Kick-off: 20:15 GMT.