🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

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