Brahim Hemdani admitted that his side's slow start to the game impacted on their chances of overcoming the Russians. Although it took 72 minutes for Zenit to break Rangers down, Hemdani felt that the Ibrox side surrendered the initiative early in the match.

"I was a little bit disappointed about the way we started," he said. "It wasn't good enough. I think Zenit played really well, especially in the first half when they had good possession. They are a very good side and that's why they won. When you see the whole game you have to admit that Zenit deserved to win."

Rangers have no time to dwell on their loss and must lift themselves for their league meeting with Motherwell at the weekend. They also face St Mirren next Monday and Aberdeen on Thursday as they attempt to wrest the league title from Celtic. "The players know that the championship is very important and we will be prepared for the big game," insisted Hemdani. "Tonight is a big disappointment but we have to think about Motherwell."