Celtic successfully appeal Daizen Maeda two-match suspension | OneFootball

Celtic have successfully appealed the two-match suspension Daizen Maeda received against Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League, with the original ban now reduced to one game.

The Japanese forward will be available for Wednesday night’s highly-anticipated showdown against Bayern Munich at Celtic Park.

The news is a massive boost for Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, who faced a selection dilemma had Maeda remained sidelined.

The Japanese international (with 22 caps) brings relentless energy in pressing, a vital component of Celtic’s tactical approach, particularly against elite opposition like Bayern.

Maeda served his suspension during the recent 4-2 defeat to Aston Villa in the league phase. While he was forced to sit out that match, his availability for the mid-week European fixture will bolster Celtic’s attacking options as they prepare to take on the Bundesliga giants.

The original suspension came from Maeda’s controversial red card against Young Boys, a decision made after a VAR review.

Many felt the ruling was harsh, arguing that the incident did not warrant an extended ban. UEFA’s decision to downgrade the charge has been welcomed by Celtic supporters, with common sense seemingly prevailing.

Rodgers had already made three permitted changes to his Celtic Champions League squad, but UEFA’s ruling presents him with a late yet significant boost.

Maeda is fresh from netting a hat-trick and reaching the 50-goal milestone in Celtic’s Scottish Cup win over Raith Rovers. He now has the chance to make an impact on the European stage once again.

Celtic will need to be at their absolute best to take something from the first leg against Bayern, and Maeda’s return could prove vital as they look to upset the German champions.

With kick-off set for 8 pm on Wednesday, the Hoops will now have one of their most influential players available for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at Celtic Park.