🔗 Share this article

Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

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

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'