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Lyon manager Alain Perrin believes star striker Karim Benzema can light up Old Trafford tomorrow.

The league leaders know a big performance from the 20-year-old could go a long way to overcoming Manchester United and reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Benzema opened the scoring in the first leg with a superb strike when he got away from Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic before Carlos Tevez grabbed a late equaliser.

The young France international is not in a good frame of mind apparently as Perrin prefers him to play out wide occasionally and not up front.

However the coach stressed before training at Old Trafford: 'Benzema is one of the key players who could make a difference for us tomorrow.

'It could come down to his quality as an individual, his skill and technique.

'He can create a chance and score and is dangerous in different areas.'

In addition to disputing his manager's tactics, Benzema has also fallen out with team-mate Hatem Ben Arfa.

Perrin is calm about the situation and said: 'They are not best friends but it does not stop them playing in the same side.'

Lyon go into the match in good heart after a 1-0 league success against Lille on Saturday, thanks to a goal from Fred.

But the former Portsmouth coach is aware his side will be up against it against a United side who have won their last nine home Champions League matches.

Perrin said: 'That goal against us at home has turned the tide slightly in favour of Manchester United.

'We are effectively eliminated if the score stays the same, so we have to attack and commit ourselves but in the right way.

'However we know that United are very solid at the back and experienced.'

Brazil defender Cris returned to action at the weekend after tearing knee ligaments in August and could retain his place in the side.

As well as Benzema, Juninho and Sidney Govou were also substituted in the second half to rest them for the second leg match.

It will be damn cool if Benzema can score and kick Man U out of the competition.