Toffees Teammates Applaud Gueye Following Apology for Michael Keane Slap
Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.
Unprecedented Situation in Premier League
Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Reaction
Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.
- He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
- The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- He also apologized to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the squad
Possible Consequences
Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Ban and International Commitments
The Merseyside club could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Rival Reaction
At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult
The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'
