Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent victory at Old Trafford.
Rare Situation in Premier League
Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'
Dressing Room Reaction
The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.
- Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
- The intense 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 warmly received by the players
Possible Ramifications
The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Ban and International Commitments
Everton could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.
'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Rival Perspective
At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging
United head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'
