The Clarets Face Off Against United in Key Top-Flight Fixture
Amorim's spell at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record stands out for all the wrong causes. Throughout the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has managed fewer points per game, nor secured a standing as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who was defeated in a larger share of fixtures. Moreover, he famously etched his name in club lore by suffering a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's version of the North London club.
Life, however, is rarely so black and white. Despite the negative press of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager exits a team in a significantly improved condition than that which he took over. Earlier this season, following a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were praising their opponents as the best opposition they had played against in a while. Their football in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with Bournemouth was equally hopeful and exciting.
Even though it is hard to argue against the decision to sack him—especially given it was said to be triggered by his comments about executives with more miserable histories—his demise was finally stymied by terrible luck. Had the absence of vital stars not occurred alongside the unavailability of other pivotal figures, he could remain in the position—perhaps succeeding.
Fletcher Takes the Reins
As a result, Fletcher takes over a relatively positive state of affairs. Important figures like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Africa Cup of Nations. Simply sensible stewardship of this talented group is expected to be adequate to guarantee a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for next season—probably in the prestigious Champions League.
Burnley's Daunting Challenge
The home side, however, won't roll over. Even with boasting only 12 points and losing 3 of their previous five matches, their displays have often been stronger than the outcomes suggest. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to get after United who are expected to play an lineup that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a setup they have gone without for more than a year.
Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.
