Everton were handed an unexpected start to their game against Manchester United on Monday night which no one could have predicted.
Idrissa Gana Gueye was shown a straight red card for an altercation with teammate Michael Keane in the opening 13 minutes of the game.
However, Everton were able to pull together and secure themselves a stunning win on the road, with their true team spirit on display.
Following the victory, Gueye apologised publicly for his red card that saw the Blues play the majority of the game with just 10 men.
The Senegal international is now going to face suspension, with his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations nearing.
David Moyes ended his torrid record away to Old Trafford in the Premier League, but admitted he was shocked at what he heard about the red card from Anthony Taylor.
Manchester United v Everton - Premier League
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David Moyes shares officials’ verdict on Idrissa Gana Gueye red card
Speaking to Everton News, Mark Clattenburg admitted he thought Gueye’s red card was correct, with a three match ban heading his way.
The notion of striking another player is what has caught out the Senegal international, who is now going to miss some big games for Everton in December.
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Should Gueye have been sent off?
Speaking after the game, Moyes told the media just what fourth official Anthony Taylor had told him about that sending off.
“I couldn’t understand it. I don’t think anyone could have expected it. Anthony Taylor told me by the letter of the law if you raise your arm you can be sent off,” revealed the 62-year-old.
It was revealed after the game that Keane had accepted Gueye’s apology in the dressing room, with the team celebrating a huge three points.
The issue for Everton is now keeping players fit, with Moyes’ midfield options taking a real beating over the last week.
Everton’s midfield options have become extremely limited
During his press conference last week, Moyes shared the news of Merlin Rohl undergoing surgery on a hernia issue.
The German midfielder has barely featured this season having signed on loan from SC Freiburg for the 2025/26 campaign.
Now, Moyes is missing both Gueye and Rohl as Everton head into the busy festive period.
Idrissa Gana Gueye’s sending off is only the third time a player has been red carded for striking his own teammate. The most infamous incident was Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer both being sent off for Newcastle vs Aston Villa in 2005, whilst Stoke City’s Ricardo Fuller had a similar fate for acting out against Andy Griffin in 2008.
Manchester United v Everton - Premier League
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The Blues will now be relying on James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam to man the midfield for the next few months, with January becoming even more important now.
Everton News columnist Alan Myers is expecting Everton to sign another midfielder in January, with Gueye’s exit for the Africa Cup of Nations already expected.
But this red card will now pile the pressure on the limited options at Moyes’ disposal.
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