Everton Squad Members Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye After Apology for Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'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 Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their unbeaten run 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

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'