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The former manager's spell at Old Trafford has been labeled a notable disappointment. By any measure, his performance is notable for all the negative reasons. During the modern top-flight period, no boss at the club has recorded a lower points average, nor achieved a final position as disappointing as 15th place. Examining the archives, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a greater proportion of matches. Additionally, he infamously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a cup final defeat to Spurs, particularly Postecoglou's side of Spurs.

The game, but, is rarely that simple. In spite of the criticism of his tactical approach, the Portuguese manager leaves behind a team in a far better state than the one he found. Months ago, following a victory over Brighton, Danny Welbeck shared that teammates were hailing their opponents as the finest opposition they had faced in some time. The play in a breathtaking four-all stalemate with AFC Bournemouth was equally encouraging and exhilarating.

Although it is difficult to contest the termination—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his remarks regarding executives with even worse records—his demise was ultimately stymied by atrocious luck. Had fitness issues for vital personnel not happened at the same time as the unavailability of other important figures, he could remain in the role—possibly succeeding.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Fletcher steps into a reasonably solid state of affairs. Key players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo are now fit, while Amad Diallo and Mbeumo will soon return from the African tournament. Just prudent management of this gifted squad ought to be enough to ensure a fifth-place finish and, with it, European competition for the following term—probably in the prestigious European Cup.

Burnley's Tough Test

Burnley, however, will not be a pushover. Although having only a dozen points and suffering defeats in 3 of their most recent five matches, their displays have at times been better than the outcomes show. Manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his side pumped up to take the game to opponents who are expected to start an XI that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a system they have gone without for more than a year.

Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.