Toffees Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Apology for Keane Incident

Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, 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,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'