Brendan Rodgers calls on Celtic to harness home advantage to ‘punish’ Bayern in first leg.

Brendan Rodgers (52) expressed his excitement about the high-profile Champions League play-off against Bayern Munich, declaring it the ideal stage for Celtic, and is focused on making the German champions earn their spot in the last 16.

Celtic has made it to the knockout rounds of the Champions League for the first time in 12 years, finishing 21st in the newly structured 36-team league phase table.

While Rodgers has enjoyed success in domestic competitions during his two tenures with the Scottish club, he is keen to achieve progress in the Champions League.

After winning only two matches in his initial three seasons in the competition with Celtic, he managed to secure three victories in eight outings this term, leading to their advancement to the play-offs.

The challenge presented by the Bundesliga leaders over two legs is formidable for Rodgers’ squad, but he aims for Europe’s elite to dread the journey to Glasgow once again.

“It’s fantastic. It’s exactly where I envisioned taking the club back to,” Rodgers remarked ahead of the first leg at Celtic Park on Wednesday.

“It’s not merely about players being able to say they’ve played at Celtic Park for the sake of it.

“I want them to feel the intensity in this arena, and to contend with the challenges posed by the dynamic between the supporters and the players on the pitch, making it an exceptionally tough night.”

The Hoops received a significant boost on Monday when their top scorer Daizen Maeda was cleared to feature in the first leg.

The Japanese international was set to serve the second of a two-match suspension following a red card against Young Boys in the penultimate game of the league phase.

However, Celtic successfully appealed to have the ban reduced to one match.

“It’s brilliant news for us,” Rodgers added. “He’s an incredible player.

“What he has brought to the team this year goes beyond just the goals—his pressing and commitment to the game are invaluable.

“Having that mindset and talent available to us was a fantastic surprise.”