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Boateng ban reduced, Ribery returns

Berlin - Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng Monday had a three-match ban reduced to two games, and there was more good news for the champions with Franck Ribery and Rafinha returning to training.

The German Football Federation (DFB) disciplinary panel said it took account of a new regulation allowing a lower punishment for fouls early in a game which are were not regarded as severe.

The Germany international was shown a red card for a professional foul against Sidney Sam in the 17th minute of last Tuesday's 1-1 draw against Schalke in the Bundesliga.

Bayern appealed the three-match ban, imposed for unsporting behaviour.

Boateng missed the 2-0 win at VfB Stuttgart on Saturday and will also be suspended for Saturday's home match against SV Hamburg. He will now be available again for the visit of Paderborn a week later.

The French winger Ribery and Brazilian right back Rafinha meanwhile could be back in action against Hamburg after missing the first three games in the league restart with a thigh muscle and ankle injury respectively.

"Lets see how my muscle reacts. I hope to be back against Hamburg," Ribery said.

Their return is also good news ahead of next week's Champions League last 16 game against Shakhtar Donetsk where Boateng is also eligible. Sapa-dpa

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