Zenit St Petersburg coach Dick Advocaat believes his side deserved to lift the Uefa Cup because of the brand of football they have played.
"Winning a prize like this does not come often in your life," he said after beating Rangers 2-0. "I'm very proud for Zenit that we have won.
"I think the way that we have played in this tournament, I think we deserved this victory.
"Hopefully this is the start of something for Russian football."
It was only the second time that a Russian side had won a European trophy.
"The money is there and hopefully this prize will mean new stadiums, good pitches and facilities for the kids," said Advocaat. "Otherwise it will incidental."
Advocaat, who had led Rangers to five trophies, said he had achieved something special.
"I have won many championships but never the Uefa Cup before, so now it's almost everything," he said.
The Dutchman, whose side have been lauded for their attacking style during the tournament, realises that it will be struggle to keep his winning side together.
"I think there's no doubt some players will go, so we have to start again," he said.
"We have to try to keep this team and buy three or four better players."
Advocaat had some words of consolation for his beaten opponents.
"I think what they have done this year with the squad they have is great, playing in four competitions," he said.
"And hopefully they can go on and win the championship and the Scottish Cup."
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