The Clarets Take On Manchester United in Pivotal Top-Flight Match
Amorim's time at Old Trafford is considered by many to have been a major disappointment. Looking at the numbers, his record is remarkable for all the negative causes. In the Premier League era, no United manager has achieved a worse points return, or managed a standing as poor as 15th in the table. Looking deeper into history, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who was defeated in a higher percentage of games. Furthermore, he notoriously secured a place in club lore by suffering a cup final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, namely Postecoglou's side of Tottenham.
The game, however, is not often so black and white. Regardless of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager departs from a club in a far better position than that which he took over. Months ago, following a win against Brighton, Welbeck reported that his colleagues were praising United as the best side they had played against in a long time. Their play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.
While it is tough to contest the dismissal—especially given it was allegedly caused by his comments about superiors with poorer track records—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hindered by awful fortune. Had injuries to crucial stars not coincided with the loss of other essential figures, he may still be in the role—maybe succeeding.
A New Era Begins
Consequently, Darren Fletcher steps into a reasonably positive situation. Key players like Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are now fit, while Diallo and Mbeumo will shortly return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Just sensible husbandry of this talented group ought to be adequate to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European football for the coming campaign—probably in the prestigious European Cup.
The Clarets' Tough Test
The home side, though, won't make things easy. Even with having only 12 points and having lost three of their previous five games, their showings have at times been stronger than the results indicate. Manager Scott Parker will surely have his squad pumped up to take the game to United who are set to field an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have been denied for more than a year.
Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.
