Rangers 1-1 Inter Milan McLeish decision in 48 hours

"I am very happy for McLeish, the fact that he managed to get to the second stage," said Mancini.

"The 1-1 draw with us might allow more time and more tranquility to do well in the championship."

Asked if Rangers deserved to join his side in the final 16, Mancini said: "Yes, after what they showed tonight."

McLeish's future will be revealed in the next two days after talks with chairman David Murray promised last month.

The Rangers manager has been criticised for poor domestic form, but Mancini thought that the Scot had proved a point.

"Mr McLeish is happy tonight and I am happy as well," said the Inter boss.

"I think it was the right result. I was expecting a tough game and I'm very happy with the result."

Former Lyon coach Paul Le Guen had been hotly tipped to take over from McLeish.

But it is believed that he has rejected two approaches from the Glasgow club as it is thought that he is in the running for the just-vacated coach's seat at Real Madrid.

Charlton Athletic's Alan Curbishley and former Hearts manager George Burley have also been linked with the Ibrox job.

Meanwhile, Preston North End manager Billy Davies is also believed to have been considered for a role if Rangers decide to go for a two-tier set-up with a director of football overseeing a first-team coach.