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The former manager's tenure at Manchester United is considered by many to have been a major letdown. Statistically speaking, his results is notable for all the wrong factors. During the Premier League era, no United manager has recorded fewer points per game, nor secured a final position as poor as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to revisit the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a higher percentage of matches. Moreover, he famously secured a place in United's annals by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham Hotspur, particularly Ange Postecoglou's iteration of Tottenham.

Football, though, is rarely so straightforward. Despite the negative press of his favored system, the Portuguese manager departs from a squad in a much stronger position than the one he inherited. Months ago, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck relayed that fellow players were praising United as the most impressive opposition they had faced in a long time. The performance in a exhilarating high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and exhilarating.

Even though it is tough to contest the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly sparked by his criticism of superiors with more miserable track records—his exit was finally hampered by terrible fortune. If the absence of key personnel not coincided with the unavailability of other important figures, he could remain in the role—perhaps even.

Fletcher Takes the Reins

Therefore, Darren Fletcher takes over a relatively positive state of affairs. Key figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the African tournament. Merely careful husbandry of this talented squad ought to be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for next season—probably in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Tough Challenge

Vincent Kompany's team, but, are unlikely to roll over. Although having only twelve points and losing 3 of their previous five matches, their showings have often been more impressive than the outcomes show. Head coach Scott Parker will certainly have his squad revved up to take the game to the visitors who are expected to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, set up in a formation they have been denied for over a year.

Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT.