The visitors bossed the game at Ewood Park for long periods but were unable to find a way past former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

United are now a point behind leaders Chelsea - 2-1 winners at Old Trafford last Saturday - with the Londoners also having a game in hand.

Manchester City strengthened their bid to finish fourth - and claim the final Champions League spot - after thumping Birmingham 5-1 at Eastlands.

Nedum Onuoha scored his first league goal of the season and Emmanuel Adebayor also weighed in with a brace.

With Carlos Tevez scoring his 27th of the season from the penalty spot and also getting a touch to Onuoha's header to score his 28th, City secured a comfortable victory.

Cameron Jerome netted Birmingham's consolation.

City are now six points ahead of Liverpool, who could only manage a goalless draw at home to fellow Europa League semi-finalists Fulham.

Today's other game, between Wolves and Stoke, also finished 0-0.