This deal could give MAN the hub carrier it has lacked, with full integration of the UK's most extensive domestic air network, a reasonable near-Continent coverage and an emerging USA offer. They'll need to make 'Flybe' at T3 link smoothly with Virgin at T2, though.
In fairness, I think
easyJet have revolutionised parts of UK regional flying for the better. What is tricky is matching the high frequency business wants with the lower fares the market will support, hence you might get only one A319 per day getting you into London just before midnight. It's the secondary markets to secondar markets that really struggle IMHO.