Manchester United will be favourites to advance to the Champions League quarter-finals once more after a cagey affair in Marseille’s noisy Stade Velodrome.

Chances were at a premium throughout the 90 minutes, and there were no chances at all that could fall under the heading clear-cut, as defences remained resolutely on top throughout.

Young centre-back Chris Smalling was particularly impressive, deputising for the injured Rio Ferdinand.

But the three-time European Club champions will be a little concerned at failing to grab an away goal, the only team in the round not to do so.

Darren Fletcher came closest to providing that away goal with United’s first effort; a right-foot shot from a half-cleared corner which Marseille custodian Steve Mandanda saved well low to his left.

The hosts came closest to breaking the first-half deadlock when Andre Ayew’s 40^th-minute corner caught the wind and forced United keeper Edwin Van der Sar into a hurried save at his near post.

Marseille came alive after the hour. However, Ayew’s cross-cum-shot after a spell of concerted pressure in the 62^nd minute was the best they could manage.

And United only had a blocked Dimitar Berbatov shot on 69 minutes to show for their efforts.