🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory 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. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• '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 Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'