Everton Teammates Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye After Apology for Keane Incident
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.
Unprecedented Situation in Premier League
Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed 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.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Dressing Room Reaction
The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and Keane in particular.
- Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
- The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
- Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the players
Potential Consequences
The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Ban and National Team Duty
The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.
'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'
Rival Reaction
At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said 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 the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'