Bizarre Europa Twist – Striker Ruled Out of Celtic Tie with Jail Sentence

Celtic have been handed a rather bizarre boost in the Europa League after one of Rosenborg’s main striker’s has been put behind bars.

Former Arsenal man Nicklas Bendtner was sentenced to 50 days in prison for breaking a taxi drivers jaw back in September of this year.

The striker has appealed the decision but it looks likely he will miss all three of Rosenborgs final Europa League ties.

Celtic have already played Rosenborg three times this season; knocking them out of The Champions League qualifiers along with beating them with a late winner in matchday one of the Europa League thanks to a late winner from Leigh Griffiths.

That night, Bendtner looked like one of the Norwegian’s biggest threats and it will be a blow to Rosenborg not to have him going forward.

The striker has had brushes with the law before in his career but this is the first time he’s been put in jail.

The player sent a message to the support after the sentence was handed down.

“I was involved in an extremely unfortunate episode.

“I could not imagine it would develop as it did, and of course I’m extremely sad that the outcome became as unfortunate as it did.

“To Rosenborg fans and audiences, I regret that this has happened. I’m sorry with all my heart that we are standing here today.

“To my dear teammates, I regret that this will steal focus in an important time. I thank you for your understanding.

“I have never been a fighter but I protect those I love on and off the pitch.”