Dundee financier Giovanni di Stefano greets Bonetti in Perugia

And he has also revealed to BBC Scotland that he could soon return to football - as a director of a club in Italy's Serie A.

The Italian left Dundee in July 2002 and has since had a courtroom battle with the Scottish Premier League club over money he claims to be owed.

Bonetti has also been criticised by Dundee defender Lee Wilkie, who was sent out on loan after a row with the manager but has now established himself as a Scotland international.

However, Bonetti, presently working for television in his homeland, has put those differences aside and hopes that Dundee can overcome their 2-1 deficit and knock Perugia out of the Uefa Cup.

Football is always open and they have a chance Ivano Bonetti

"Obviously, on this occasion, I am a Dundee fan," he said after watching his former charges in training.

"I always trusted there there were good players in the side.

"When Perugia play at home, they are usually strong, but Fabian Caballero and Gavin Rae are the type of players that can cause them problems.

"Football is always open and they have a chance."

Bonetti held no grudges against Wilkie and played down any continuing rift.

Preview: Perugia v Dundee

"He was not happy for eight months, but for the last three months he played for my side," the Italian pointed out.

"He is a regular in the team and it could be that I helped him to that.

"But he is still young and can learn many things."

Bonetti expected to be a director of a Serie A club next season.

"I already know the club, but it is too early to say which one," he added.