From Andrew Dickson in Florence

NEIL ALEXANDER says he's ready for penalties if that's what it takes to determine whether Rangers or Fiorentina reach the UEFA Cup final.

With the sides locked at 0-0 after last week's semi-final first leg at Ibrox, another goalless draw after regulation and extra-time tonight would take the tie to a shoot-out.

Alexander has already made his mark at that stage of a game this season, saving two kicks from 12 yards to help Gers past St Johnstone and into the Scottish Cup final.

If it takes the same again to send the Light Blues to yet another tournament climax, the 29-year-old is confident he can make a significant contribution.

The former Ipswich keeper said: "It would be nice to go through and do the business in 90 minutes but I know penalties are a possibility.

"It has crossed my mind, I won't lie. If it comes to that, hopefully I'll be very prepared and ready for the challenge ahead.

"I wouldn't say I've been lying in my bed dreaming of tipping a penalty around the post because my wife would kill me.

"But I know what we might face in the game and if it goes that far, it would be great to be the hero in a shoot-out."

Alexander is braced for an onslaught from Cesare Prandelli's side, who are expected by fans at the Stadio Artemio Franchi to take the game to Gers.

But the Scotland squad member remains optimistic the Ibrox outfit can keep their great European away record up and get at least a scoring draw to progress.

He added: "Being at home, Fiorentina have to be seen as the favourites and we are expecting them to throw everything at us.

"I think I am probably going to be busier than I was in the first game but I am ready for that and I'm feeling confident.

"Most of all, I'm looking forward to the match. We have nothing to lose and everything to gain and this is a fantastic occasion for the club.

"I've had one big game after another in the last couple of weeks but that is why I came to Rangers.

"I never thought I'd be in this situation and it is great to be able to say I've played in a European semi-final. I just hope I can do myself proud.

"Nobody expected us to get that far and the squad has done really well to reach this stage but we're here on merit and we'll give it everything we've got to go further."

Alexander's chances of having David Weir playing in front of him are increasing after the stopper's groin problem improved on Tuesday.

The veteran has formed an excellent partnership with Carlos Cuellar in defence this term and teaming them up again will improve Rangers' chance of going through.

Alexander said: "It will be crucial if we get Davie back. Him and Carlos have been magnificent this season and we need our back four to stay as settled as possible.

"Likewise, we need our team to be as close as possible to our strongest XI as Fiorentina are going to have a lot of possession.

"They will have a lot of chances as well but if we can have our usual centre-halves together on the pitch, it will give us one hell of a chance."