Everton Squad Members Applaud Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker 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 head
  • The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
  • He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
  • His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible 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 lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

  • 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
  • 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
  • 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'

Grace Pope
Grace Pope

A passionate gamer and tech enthusiast with years of experience in game journalism and community engagement.