ALLY McCoist today insisted Rangers don't fear being drawn against any side in the League Cup last eight - including Old Firm rivals Celtic.

McCoist's side booked their place in the quarter-finals of the competition with a 3-1 away win over fellow SPFL Championship side Falkirk last night.

And the Ibrox club could face the Scottish champions in the next round if the Hoops manage to overcome Hearts at Parkhead this evening.

Rangers defeated Premiership high-flyers Inverness Caledonian Thistle 1-0 in the second round of the competition last week and their manager is looking forward to their next outing in the League Cup even if his team come up against their fierce city rivals.

McCoist said: "Let's be honest, Celtic would be everyone's favourites to win every domestic competition that they are in. But the favourites don't always win it.

"We proved against Inverness that we can give teams in the top flight a one-off game. We went away from home last night and played one of the best sides in our league and deservedly won that one.

"Listen, we have got miles to go, but everyone wants a nice cup run. I would take a home draw."

He added: "Generally speaking, top flight teams hang about in the competition longer so the chances of us getting another top flight team would certainly be greater.

"We are excited about the draw, but we have a couple of really tough league games coming up as well and we are involved in a league campaign that is pretty exciting as well."

Meanwhile, McCoist has dismissed claims from his opposite number Peter Houston that Falkirk should have been awarded a penalty late on when the scoreline was 2-1.

Gers defender Bilel Mohsni clearly handled a Rory Loy ball inside his own area - but his manager stressed that the player knew nothing about the incident.

He said: "I didn't think it was a penalty. I don't think there is any doubt that it hit his hand. But deliberate handball? Not for me. I will watch it again and if I need to stand corrected I will do.

"You can talk all you like about penalties, but Dean had two smashing chances in the first half, big Jon had a header cleared off the line and we gifted them a goal as well. I thought we deserved it."

Meanwhile, McCoist has stated he is confident that Kris Boyd will score soon - despite the striker failing to hit the target for the fifth game running.

"I thought he was terrific tonight. Obviously centre forwards are judged on their goals. But his overall performance was very, very good.

"The goals will come. I don't see it as a major problem."