Deschamps: I know United's weakness

Marseille coach Didier Deschamps firmly believes his side can knock Manchester United out of the Champions League.

Deschamps' side will meet the English giants in the tournament's Round of 16 at the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday.

While most punters will place their money on a Red Devils' win, the Frenchman believes he has some aces up his sleeve.

In comments reported in The Sun, Deschamps said:"I believe we can beat them and knock them out. If I don't believe it how can I tell my players to believe they can do it?

"It's a massive ask for us because United's objective is not to beat us but to win the competition.

"United defend very well and have enormous talent but I've spotted some weaknesses at the back.

"I won't tell you them but we will not be content with just defending in the two matches."

Deschamps has some serious coaching pedigree, having taken unfancied Monaco to the 2004 Champions League final - where they lost to Jose Mourinho's Porto.

"My Monaco beat Chelsea when nobody gave us a chance. That year we also beat Real Madrid and absolutely no one gave us a chance."

However, the 1998 World Cup winner is hoping United arrive in France complacent and convinced they're going to win.

"It's better for us if they are not afraid. It's better they come here certain they will qualify," he said.

"Better they come to the Velodrome knowing it will be easy and calm - but that will not be the case.

"If United knock out Marseille it's normal. But what will be unforgettable is if Marseille eliminate United."

However, Deschamps' task has been made tougher by the absence of striker Andre-Pierre Gignac for the first leg. Gignac picked up an injury during the Ligue 1 match with St Etienne over the weekend.

The much sought-after Loic Remy as well as Brandao are on the injury list as well, but Deschamps expects them to be fit for Wednesday's game.