Didier Deschamps felt his side’s growing maturity was evident in their 1-0 Champions League win over Inter Milan last night.

Although the home side left it late at the Stade Velodrome, Andre Ayew netting the winner from the last attack of the game, Deschamps was pleased with his players’ approach in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash.

And he believes they have grown as a collective after losing at the same stage to Manchester United 12 months ago.

“It’s a small advantage but I am pleased with what we have done,” he said.

“It was a tough game with few opportunities for either side but we pushed on in the final 15 minutes or so.

“Compared to last year, it is proof that we have grown.”

Midfielder Mathieu Valbuena shared his manager’s sentiments, adding: “We are happy but this is only the first leg.

“It was a big game in terms of the spirit, determination and aggression required but it was good to score in the 90th minute. It was a magical moment.

“Each year we say there is a lack of maturity and that we give too much respect to our opponents but this time we saw a squad which has matured.

“I am not sure we would have won this game a few years ago.

“We did what we failed to do against Manchester United last year.”

The defeat heaped more pressure on Inter boss Claudio Ranieri and Deschamps admits it may further damage the Nerazzurri’s fragile confidence.

“We had that bit of luck at the end,” he said.

“There is enormous pleasure on our side but for them I imagine it’s harder to digest. It’s difficult to lose a Champions League game in the final minutes.”