Everton Squad Members Applaud Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Incident
Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.
Rare Incident in English Football
The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's performance was heroic 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.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Response
The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the whole team and the defender specifically.
- Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
- The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
- Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad
Possible Consequences
The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.
Ban and International Commitments
Everton could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.
'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Reaction
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.
- 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging
United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'
