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The former manager's spell at Manchester United was widely regarded as a notable failure. By any measure, his results is remarkable for all the negative causes. Throughout the Premier League era, no United manager has managed a lower points average, or managed a league finish as disappointing as 15th place. Delving further back, you have to go back to the manager Frank O'Farrell in the early seventies to find a Red Devils' gaffer who lost a larger share of games. Additionally, he notoriously etched his name in club lore by experiencing a final loss to Tottenham, particularly Postecoglou's version of the North London club.

Football, but, is rarely so black and white. Regardless of the negative press of his 3-4-2-1 formation, he leaves behind a squad in a far better condition than that which he found. Earlier this season, following a defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion, the striker Welbeck reported that his colleagues were hailing United as the most impressive opposition they had encountered in a while. The football in a thrilling high-scoring tie with AFC Bournemouth was equally hopeful and thrilling.

Even though it is difficult to contest the termination—especially given it was said to be sparked by his remarks regarding bosses with even worse histories—his demise was in the end hindered by terrible luck. If fitness issues for crucial personnel not occurred alongside the unavailability of other pivotal figures, he might still be in the position—perhaps even.

A New Era Begins

Consequently, Fletcher inherits a relatively positive scenario. Important players like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are back to fitness, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the African tournament. Merely prudent husbandry of this skilled squad should be sufficient to secure a finish in the European spots and, with it, European football for next season—in all likelihood in the elite European Cup.

The Clarets' Tough Task

Burnley, however, are unlikely to be a pushover. Although boasting only 12 points and having lost 3 of their last five matches, their performances have often been better than the scorelines indicate. Manager Parker will undoubtedly have his side fired up to get after the visitors who are set to start an starting eleven that has not had time to gel, arranged in a system they have not used for more than a year.

Match begins: 8.15pm GMT.