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

The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'