Panathinaikos rest in-form Cyriel Dessers for Greek Cup tie with Aris

Cyriel Dessers has been left out of Panathinaikos’ squad for Wednesday evening’s Greek Cup meeting with Aris Thessaloniki, with the club confirming the decision after Tuesday’s training session.

Panathinaikos manager Jacob Neestrup has selected a 24-man squad for the match, but Nigeria international Dessers is not included as part of a planned rest.

The striker is not carrying an injury. However, Neestrup has chosen to manage his workload after Dessers returned from an injury earlier this season.

That previous setback ruled Dessers out of Panathinaikos’ first three matches in the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds.

Dessers has since become an important figure in the team’s attack, scoring decisive goals and making a substantial contribution during his first season with the club.

The former Rangers forward has found the net nine times in 14 appearances across the UEFA Conference League, Greek Super League and Greek Cup.

His absence means Panathinaikos will face Aris without one of their most productive attacking players this season, although the decision is intended to protect the striker following his recovery.

The match will also feature Nigerian midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru, who will hope to be selected for Aris Thessaloniki.

Dele-Bashiru, a former Manchester City youth teamer, has not started a game for Aris since their Greek Cup match against Marko on September 16.

Panathinaikos confirmed Dessers’ omission after completing their preparations for the cup fixture, with Neestrup opting for rotation rather than risking an unnecessary increase in the forward’s workload.