🔗 Share this article

The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused United of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• '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 Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'