Celtic reinstated into Europa League after FC Sion thrown out

Celtic have been given a Europa League lifeline after being reinstated into the competition after FC Sion were disqualified.

The Scottish side, who failed to beat FC Sion over two legs, will have a place in the group stage after it was discovered that the Swiss side had included five ineligible players in their squad against the Bhoys.

"We have been advised by UEFA that the two protests relating to the matches against FC Sion have been upheld, as a result of which each match has been forfeited in favour of Celtic," a Celtic spokesman said. "We are pleased by this decision, the approach which has been taken by UEFA and the fact that UEFA rules and regulations have been upheld. We are also grateful for the support of the SFA in this matter."

Celtic are now part of Group I and will play Atletico Madrid, Rennes and Udinese, while FC Sion have three days to appeal UEFA's decision.