Image source: football365.com
Darren Fletcher takes charge of Manchester United for the first time as interim manager when they visit relegation-threatened Burnley on Wednesday evening, with the former midfielder replacing Ruben Amorim following the Portuguese coach’s dismissal after a disappointing tenure at Old Trafford.
Fletcher Faces Perfect Start Opportunity Against Relegation-Battling Burnley
Amorim’s reign ended after managing just 24 victories in 63 games, delivering a 31.9% win ratio that proved insufficient for United’s ambitions. The Portuguese manager’s departure has paved the way for Fletcher, a former United player who represented the club 342 times during his playing career, to step into the breach as the club searches for a permanent solution.
Burnley present an ideal opportunity for Fletcher to make an immediate impact, with Scott Parker’s side sitting 19th in the Premier League table and six points from safety. The Clarets have managed just three wins in 20 matches this season and collected only two points from their last 33 available, leaving them rated at 1/100 for relegation by bookmakers.
United currently occupy sixth position in the table, significantly better than their hosts despite their recent struggles under Amorim. Fletcher is expected to abandon the three-at-the-back system favoured by his predecessor, though he faces selection challenges with Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui away at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Kobbie Mainoo remains doubtful with a calf problem.
The fixture kicks off at 20:15 UK time at Turf Moor on Wednesday, January 7, with live coverage available on Sky Sports Premier League from 7pm. Burnley could welcome back Hannibal Mejbri and Lyle Foster from international duty, while Maxime Esteve may return from injury after missing the recent 2-0 defeat at Brighton.
