Celtic have been handed a huge boost ahead of their Champions League knockout play-off tie against Bayern Munich, with Daizen Maeda’s suspension successfully reduced following an appeal.
Maeda was originally set to miss the first leg of the tie after receiving a red card against Young Boys in the second-last game of the league stage. However, after Celtic’s appeal to UEFA, his ban has been cut from two games to one, meaning he’s now eligible to face Bayern at Celtic Park tomorrow night.
This is a massive boost for Brendan Rodgers, with Maeda in sensational form, having scored 21 goals this season and reaching the milestone of 50 goals for Celtic.
Bayern Munich will be unable to wear their traditional red home kit for either leg of the tie due to UEFA kit regulations. [SunSport]
UEFA has enforced a ban on Bayern’s red kit because the darkened numbers on the back don’t provide enough contrast for spectators and broadcasters. As a result, Vincent Kompany’s side will be forced to wear their black away kit or their beige third strip—something they’ve done throughout the competition so far.
Bayern are expected to wear their black kit at Celtic Park tomorrow.
With Maeda back in the squad, Celtic’s attacking options are significantly strengthened. His relentless pressing, pace, and recent goal-scoring form will be crucial as Celtic look to take advantage of the home leg.
