The former manager's time at Manchester United was widely regarded as a major letdown. By any measure, his record is remarkable for all the wrong factors. During the modern top-flight period, not a single Man Utd boss has recorded a worse points return, nor secured a standing as disappointing as the 15th spot. Delving further back, you have to return to Frank O'Farrell in 1972 to find a manager at the club who lost a greater proportion of fixtures. Additionally, he famously secured a place in the team's history by enduring a cup final defeat to Spurs, specifically Postecoglou's side of Tottenham.
The game, though, is rarely so black and white. In spite of the criticism of his favored system, he departs from a team in a far better state than that which he inherited. Months ago, following a win against Brighton & Hove Albion, Danny Welbeck shared that his colleagues were hailing United as the best opposition they had encountered in some time. Their performance in a breathtaking 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth was both promising and thrilling.
Although it is tough to dispute the decision to sack him—particularly given it was allegedly caused by his comments about bosses with poorer histories—Amorim's downfall was ultimately hampered by atrocious fortune. If the absence of vital players not coincided with the unavailability of other essential figures, he could remain in the job—maybe succeeding.
Therefore, Darren Fletcher inherits a fairly stable state of affairs. Important figures like Mason Mount, Fernandes, and Mainoo are available again, while Diallo and Mbeumo will soon rejoin from the Afcon. Just sensible husbandry of this gifted group ought to be enough to guarantee a finish in the European spots and, with it, European competition for the coming campaign—probably in the prestigious European Cup.
The home side, though, won't make things easy. Despite having only twelve points and losing three of their last five matches, their showings have frequently been stronger than the outcomes suggest. Boss Scott Parker will undoubtedly have his squad fired up to attack opponents who are likely to play an lineup that has lacked cohesion, arranged in a setup they have been denied for a year or more.
Match begins: 8:15 in the evening GMT.
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