🔗 Share this article

The former manager's tenure at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a notable failure. By any measure, his record stands out for all the negative causes. During the Premier League era, not a single Man Utd boss has managed fewer points per game, nor achieved a final position as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to return to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of games. Moreover, he infamously secured a place in club lore by enduring a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Ange Postecoglou's version of Tottenham.

Life, however, is seldom so straightforward. In spite of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he leaves behind a club in a significantly improved condition than that which he took over. In a prior match this term, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing United as the finest side they had faced in a while. The play in a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Although it is tough to dispute the dismissal—particularly given it was reportedly triggered by his remarks regarding executives with more miserable records—his downfall was ultimately stymied by terrible luck. Had fitness issues for key players not occurred alongside the unavailability of other pivotal members, he might still be in the position—perhaps even.

Fresh Start for United

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a fairly stable state of affairs. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon be back from the Africa Cup of Nations. Merely sensible management of this talented group is expected to be enough to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, continental football for the coming campaign—in all likelihood in the prestigious UEFA Champions League.

Burnley's Daunting Task

Vincent Kompany's team, however, will not roll over. Despite having only a dozen points and having lost three of their last five outings, their performances have frequently been better than the scorelines suggest. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his side revved up to attack the visitors who are expected to start an XI that has never played together, set up in a formation they have gone without for more than a year.

Start time: 8:15 in the evening GMT.