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The former manager's spell at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a significant letdown. Looking at the numbers, his results is notable for all the wrong factors. Throughout the Premier League era, no boss at the club has managed a worse points return, or managed a standing as poor as 15th place. Looking deeper into history, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of matches. Additionally, he notoriously secured a place in United's annals by suffering a final loss to Tottenham, particularly Ange Postecoglou's iteration of the North London club.

The game, but, is seldom that simple. Despite the scrutiny of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he departs from a team in a far better position than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Welbeck reported that fellow players were hailing their opponents as the finest side they had encountered in a while. The play in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to argue against the dismissal—particularly given it was reportedly caused by his remarks regarding bosses with more miserable track records—his demise was in the end hindered by atrocious fortune. If fitness issues for crucial personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important members, he might still be in the role—perhaps even.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, the interim boss Fletcher steps into a relatively solid state of affairs. Star players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are available again, while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will in the near future rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible husbandry of this talented group is expected to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental competition for next season—most likely in the prestigious European Cup.

Burnley's Formidable Test

Vincent Kompany's team, but, will not make things easy. Although having only twelve points and having lost three of their previous five games, their performances have frequently been better than the outcomes suggest. Boss Parker will certainly have his team pumped up to take the game to the visitors who are set to field an starting eleven that has never played together, arranged in a system they have gone without for over a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.