Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Situation in English Football
Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Response
The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.
- Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
- The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
- Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players
Possible Consequences
The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.
Suspension and International Duty
Everton could be without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.
'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Reaction
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging
The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'
