Toffees Squad Members Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

  • He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
  • The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
  • Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
  • Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

  • 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
  • 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
  • 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'

Daisy Pace
Daisy Pace

Passionate cyclist and outdoor enthusiast with over a decade of experience in bike touring and gear testing.