While Walter Smith's side held Fiorentina 0-0 in the first leg of their semi-final at Ibrox last night, the Russian club earned a 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

The results left open the possibility of a clash between Advocaat's past and current clubs at Eastlands on May 14.

Dutchman Advocaat, who was boss at Ibrox from 1998 to 2001, is relishing the prospect of a meeting with Rangers and a reunion with his former chairman Sir David Murray.

He told PA Sport: "It would be great for us to face Rangers in Manchester and it would be great to see my good friend David again.

"Rangers have a good chance of getting to the final and hopefully we will see them there - let's hope we can do it together.

"I certainly hope Rangers make it because I'm a Rangers fan.

"You know what they say - once a Ranger, always a Ranger.

"PSV underestimated Fiorentina in the last round after drawing 1-1 in Italy and that's why they lost 2-0 at home.

"But Rangers will not underestimate them and they will have Barry Ferguson back for the second leg which is great.

"It is incredible to think my old club have a chance to win four trophies this season.

"What Walter Smith has achieved this season has been unbelievable.

"I know how difficult it is to be a Rangers manager so I have great respect for him."

On the face of it, Zenit are closer to a final appearance than Rangers.

However, Advocaat believes his side have still a lot to do before they can book flights to England.

He said: "Normally a 1-1 draw is a good result away from home but we will have six or seven players out for the return game through injury and suspension.

"I would be more confident if I had my full team available but I'm not sure what team I will be able to pick.

"I was pleased with the way we played against Bayern.

"They controlled the first half and we controlled the second half and got the goal, although it was an own goal.

"But it will be difficult to get to the final because Bayern are a top team with top players."