Source: Daily_Mail
Didier Deschamps backs Marseille to pull off upset at Old Trafford
Marseille coach Didier Deschamps admits his team will be the underdogs at Old Trafford on Tuesday but insists they can shock Manchester United after a run of five wins in six league games.[LNB]The teams are evenly balanced after a 0-0 draw in the first leg of this Champions League last-16 match.[LNB]Marseille go into the game on the back of a victory at Rennes, where United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was an interested spectator.[LNB]Deschamps said: 'If you look at the match purely from a statistical point of view, Manchester United have not been defeated at home for a long time.[LNB] Big challenge: Gabriel Heinze (centre) with his Marseille team-mates in training at Old Trafford[LNB]'They have conceded only one goal in seven Champions League games and are a very strong side, so it is a tough task.[LNB]'In addition they are one of four or five teams who have a realistic chance of winning the Champions League.[LNB]'On paper you wouldfully expect Manchester United to qualify. But we have a chance, a little opportunity. Football is not about statistics alone.'[LNB]Marseille lost to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge earlier in the campaign and Deschamps wants an improvement on that performance.[LNB]'We made some individual errors,' said the former France midfielder.'What I know is that at the highest level and playing against Unitedthey will give us nothing.[LNB] Stalemate: United held Marseille to a goalless draw in the first-leg[LNB]'It was a good result for them in the first leg and they are veryexperienced. Despite our good run in the league this is a verydifferent game for us.[LNB]'It is a big step up and we have to come up with the right kind of challenge.'[LNB]Goalkeeper Steve Mandanda is relishing the task ahead. He said:'United are a great side but we will be motivated as there iseverything to play for.[LNB]'When you look at what they have achieved it is inspirational. Thereis respect for them, not fear. We believe we can achieve a victory.'[LNB] Nani hands Fergie huge boost ahead of Euro clash as winger returns to trainingCaptain's plea: Don't hand Terry my England armband, Rio tells Fabio Marseille rocked by striker arrest and manager row ahead of United clashAll the latest Manchester United news, features and opinion [LNB] [LNB] Explore more:People: Alex Ferguson
