The Dutchman was a favourite at Ibrox between 2000 and 2006 but was booed by the Rangers supporters in a friendly in Glasgow two seasons ago when he injured Light Blues' winger Chris Burke.

The former AZ Alkmaar player has been less than complimentary about Rangers in recent weeks but at the official UEFA press conference ahead of Wednesday's Manchester final, the 31-year-old seemed more conciliatory.

He said: "I hope I get a warm welcome from the fans, the staff and the players.

Unfortunately I am not playing there now, I am on the other side, but in all the years that I was there I did my best for Rangers.

"When I knew I was to face Rangers in the final I was very happy. I know the club very well and was happy that I would get to see a lot of people that I know.

"But I play for Zenit and the only thing is winning."

Ricksen was brought to Rangers by Advocaat and followed the former Holland manager to St Petersburg two seasons ago after a spat with then Ibrox boss Paul Le Guen.

The Dutchman insists he has no regrets about moving to Russia.

He said: "I wouldn't have gone to a team if I hadn't seen the potential for the future.

"When I got there and saw the standard of player I knew it was a matter of time before we went on to higher things."