Celtic v Bayern Munich: Predicted XI with major role for Maeda | OneFootball

Celtic face Bayern Munich this evening in the UEFA Champions League Playoff first leg. The Scottish Champions face the Bundesliga leaders in what promises to be an enthralling meeting under the lights in Glasgow’s East End.

In around an hour, Brendan Rodgers’ team will be named but it is expected that the Irishman will pull no surprises with his team.

Celtic were given a huge boost with the news that Daizen Maeda would be available for the game. The Japanese attacker had his two game suspension successfully appealed meaning that he will be available for tonight’s game.

Kasper Schmeichel will start in goals. The Dane missed the win over Raith Rovers but will return to the first team ahead of a potentially busy night under the lights at Paradise.

Auston Trusty and Cameron Carter-Vickers will likely start in the central pairing with Greg Taylor and Alistair Johnston in the full back berths. Callum McGregor will start in the heart of the midfield with Arne Engels and Reo Hatate offering assistance in both attack and defence.

Maeda will likely start along with Nicolas Kühn in the wide areas with Adam Idah through the middle. Brendan will keep Jota in reserve to make an impact against the Germans.

Predicted XI: Schmeichel; Taylor, Trusty, Carter-Vickers, Johnston; McGregor, Hatate, Engels; Maeda, Idah, Kühn.

Bayern face title challengers and German Champions Bayer Leverkusen at the weekend and they’ll be conscious of that game, which falls between their European commitments.