But Ricksen the insists he has nothing to prove to his old club when he lines up against them in Wednesday's UEFA Cup final.

The Dutchman was sent home from a pre-season tour in July 2006 by then manager Paul Le Guen following an incident on the flight to South Africa.

Ricksen subsequently spent time at the Sporting Chance Clinic before former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat ended his controversial spell in Glasgow by taking him to Russia.

The 31-year-old said: "I wasn't disappointed in the club for the way my time ended there. It was my own fault.

"I wasn't living life in the right way and I can't blame Rangers or their fans.

"Look, it is not important that I used to play for Rangers. That has nothing to do with this final.

"I am a Zenit player and happy to be here. I want to bring this trophy back to Russia.

"I have nothing to prove. What should I have to prove to Rangers or their fans? I went away and left that part behind me so I don't have any texts or contact with people at Rangers."

Ricksen is unsure of a starting place in the City of Manchester Stadium after missing the second leg of the semi-final win over Bayern Munich through suspension.

But he guaranteed himself a hot reception by repeating his swipe at the defensive tactics of Rangers, which have seen them concede just two goals in the competition.

Ricksen, who was jeered during a 4-1 friendly win for Zenit at Ibrox in August 2006 after a heavy challenge that injured Chris Burke, picked up on Barcelona midfielder Lionel Messi's critique.

"The biggest difference with Rangers is that when I was there they played football," he said.

"I don't know what they play now - I think it is called anti-football."