Toffees Teammates Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye After Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.
Rare Incident in English Football
Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve 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 accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Dressing Room Reaction
The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.
- He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
- The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- He also said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
- Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad
Possible Consequences
Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.
Ban and International Commitments
Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Perspective
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult
The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'