ALEX McLEISH admits he has sympathy for the situation Rangers boss Kenny McDowall finds himself in ahead of tomorrow's Old Firm clash.

The 56-year-old won seven major honours during his time in the Ibrox dugout, despite operating under far more stringent financial restraints than predecessor Dick Advocaat.

McDowall is attempting to steady the ship as Rangers continue to struggle in choppy waters, with on and off-the-field problems taking a major toll on the club.

And McLeish knows it is difficult for the interim Ibrox boss as he looks to rally his players to turn in the biggest performance of their Gers careers.

Big Eck said: "Listen, I'm a coach, I've been there. I've been a manager, I've been through successful times and I've had bad times as well.

"I know what they go through, so I've got empathy for the guys, good guys who are good coaches.

"Sometimes there's nothing you can do. When your quality gets less and less it's all the harder.

"You can't turn all of a sudden guys who aren't comfortable on the ball into being comfortable on it. It's got to be taught at a young age."

McLeish was the scourge of Celtic for much of his five-year term as Rangers boss as he led his side to famous last-day title wins and the Treble in 2003.

The Genk boss was back in Glasgow last weekend as he led a team of Light Blue legends in a tribute match for Fernando Ricksen.

And McLeish hopes Gers fans will have plenty to shout about as McDowall looks to lead his side to the League Cup final tomorrow afternoon.

He said: "There are no favourites. The pressure is on Celtic. Rangers' experienced players will be very important.

"I'm sure the young boys will raise their game, discipline has got to be a factor.

"You never know. You saw the FA Cup last Saturday.

"I think it will be fantastic if Sunday was anything to go by.

"I hope Rangers fans fill their section and I'm sure they will because everyone has been waiting for this game for a couple of years.

"Maybe last year it would have been a mismatch, but possibly they can give Celtic a go this year."

Victory for Rangers at Hampden would be a timely boost for the club, players and supporters in the midst of yet more off-field drama at Ibrox.

But, like Celtic, there are bigger and more pressing matters to attend to in the coming weeks and months.

Promotion back to the top flight remains Rangers' top goal this term, while Ronny Deila's side also have a title fight on their hands and Europa League clashes with Inter Milan to look forward to.

McLeish said: "I think they would have a right to be euphoric. The more pressing business is to get out the league.

"Celtic are favourites, so the pressure is on them. Celtic will try to be relaxed.

"I don't know Ronny, it's his first game as well and I'm sure he's been reminded at just how important it is."