🔗 Share this article

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'