🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'