Bayern's Niko Kovac says it is 'annoying' that Thomas Muller won't face Liverpool

Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac has admitted that he finds it ‘annoying’ Thomas Muller will miss both legs of their Champions League tie with Liverpool after UEFA rejected the Bundesliga club’s appeal against the two-match ban.

Muller received a straight red card for his dangerously high challenge on an Ajax player as Bayern drew 3-3 in Holland in their final group game.

Speaking at a news conference, Kovac said:

“I have expected it actually. A red card means you will get banned from two matches, two yellow cards are a one-match ban.

“UEFA didn’t want to lower a red card punishment to a one-match ban. Therefore, it is normal. I am happy the ban wasn’t extended.

“Missing the games against Liverpool is quite annoying for Thomas and the team, as well.

“But if he’s not able to play, someone else will. That other player will perform equally as good, so we can be successful.”

Liverpool, unfortunately, will be missing their star defender Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch international centre-back has been one of the top performing defenders in Europe over the last 12 months. However, he picked up three yellow cards during the group stages so will miss the first leg with Bayern at Anfield.

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