🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed 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 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, 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 mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'