🔗 Share this article

Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Reaction

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

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

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'