🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted 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 standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said 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 noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'