🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

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

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

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

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'