LEE Robinson today insisted Rangers have the quality needed to come out on top in the League Cup semi-final showdown with Celtic.

Robinson saw exactly what is required to win an Old Firm clash during his previous spell as a player at the Ibrox club.

The keeper, who made his first start for the Gers against Dumbarton on Saturday, sat on the bench in a Glasgow derby match back in 2006.

The Hoops ran out 2-0 winners in that SPL game thanks to goals from Thomas Gravesen and current Light Blues striker Kenny Miller.

But the Englishman was given an insight into the demands of the world-renowned fixture during those 90 minutes at Parkhead.

Scottish champions Celtic will kick off the first meeting with their city rivals in nearly three years as strong favourites to triumph.

Ronny Deila's side play in the SPFL Premiership and are also competing in the Europa League this season.

But Robinson believes Rangers boss Ally McCoist has players who can cope with the atmosphere and intensity of the Old Firm match.

He said: "There is definitely a lot of quality in this Rangers side. I wouldn't say there is a massive gap between the Rangers squad when I was at Ibrox before and now.

"A few of the lads who were players at Rangers when I was here before, guys like Kris Boyd and Stevie Smith, are still here at the club. I don't think there is a huge difference.

"We have many players who have been involved in the Old Firm game in the past and that will certainly help us in the League Cup semi-final."

Robinson added: "Plus we have got guys who have been at big clubs and have played in big matches before. Ian Black, for example, has been at Hearts and has played in the top division for many years. He will take the Old Firm game in his stride.

"We've got some experienced players and even though they are in the division above us I don't think there will be an enormous difference between the two teams."