🔗 Share this article

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

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

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'