Former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat has had a storied career both as a player and manager, but there’s a four-year period of his 72 which stands out more than all the others for the Dutch coach.
Advocaat has described his time at Ibrox between 1998 and 2002, where he also served as general manager, as the “most beautiful period” of his life.
In a touching recantation of his time with Rangers, the now Feyenoord boss opened his heart on his spell in Glasgow.
“I have a special bond with Rangers. It was the most beautiful period of my life, really special,” he said [BBC Sport].
“Rangers have style. There is a lot from the club and the fans that make you aware of that.
“Something happens to your mind and your body. It comes from everybody there up to the lady who does the washing. Everything about the club has style.”
Advocaat’s reign at Ibrox will be most remembered for that stunning treble in his first season, combined with signing a host of international stars.
Under the Little General Rangers signed a plethora of Dutch superstars including Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Ronald de Boer and Fernando Ricksen.
It’s not the first time Advocaat has faced Rangers since leaving Ibrox either.
The Dutch coach was in charge of Zenit as they pipped Rangers 2-0 in the UEFA Cup Final back in 2008.
Could the club be looking to exact a little bit of revenge in Rotterdam?
