PEDRO MENDES fears Rangers could be shot down by an old friend when they meet Sevilla.

Mendes was a team-mate of French star Freddie Kanoute during his time with Spurs, and got a close up view of the talent which has made the 31-year-old such a major star in La Liga.

Kanoute may have endured mixed fortunes at White Hart Lane, but he has been a top performer in Spain - and Mendes says he will be one to watch when Rangers face Manolo Jimenez's team.

The Portuguese midfielder said: "I know Sevilla well, they are a very good team with very good players. Freddie was a team-mate of mine at Spurs and he is a terrific striker, very powerful, skilful and he can score goals.

"He is now one of the top forwards in Spain, a fantastic player. We will have to watch him but, all over the pitch, Sevilla are strong and I look forward to facing them."

Mendes believes it will be a tough group, but hopes his team can rise to the challenge and push for a last 16 slot.

He told the club website: "It is true that we could have been drawn against bigger clubs, but the teams we will face will still be very tough.

"We know Sevilla and Stuttgart will be very strong. Rangers fans, of course, will know about Stuttgart from a couple of years ago and, while I don't know much about Unirea Urziceni, I am sure they will be looking to do well.

"It will be very competitive, but I think if we play well and at the top of our capabilities we will have a chance.

"I don't know much about the Romanians but, of course, we will study them. But we have to look forward to the games and, if we prepare ourselves well, we will be ready for the challenges ahead."

Mendes also believes Rangers are a vastly-improved side from the one which crashed out of the Champions League qualifiers 12 months ago.

He added: "A lot of new players came in last year and, after one year playing together - a successful year - I think we will be better. We know each other better and we will play together better. I think we can give some joy to the fans."