Everton’s Idrissa Gueye Red-Carded for Striking Teammate Michael Keane in Manchester United Clash
In a surprising turn of events during the match between Everton and Manchester United, Idrissa Gueye was sent off for violently striking teammate Michael Keane. This incident occurred early in the game as the tension escalated after a misplaced pass.
Details of the Incident
The conflict arose when Gueye, frustrated by Keane’s performance, raised his hand and made contact with the defender’s face. Referee Tony Harrington promptly issued a red card for violent conduct, leading to Gueye’s dismissal from the match.
Reactions from Commentators
- Gary Neville questioned the severity of the slap, stating, “Was it a little slap or a proper whack?”
- Jamie Carragher suggested that the referee might have managed the situation better, proposing a yellow card could have sufficed.
Both commentators expressed concern over the implications of this ruling in light of Premier League regulations. According to these rules, any striking of the head or face with excessive force constitutes violent conduct, barring negligible force.
Historical Context
This is a notable occurrence as Gueye becomes the first Premier League player to receive a red card for striking a teammate since Ricardo Fuller’s incident in 2008. It marks only the third such dismissal in Premier League history, joining infamous cases involving Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer in 2005.
Past Incidents
- Bowyer and Dyer were both sent off in a clash that led to a seven-game ban for Bowyer.
- In 2008, Fuller was dismissed for hitting his captain, an action he claimed strengthened team morale.
The incident with Gueye raises questions about the management of on-field tensions and the application of rules regarding player conduct. As discussions continue, fans and analysts alike will be curious about the implications for Gueye’s career moving forward.
