Toffees Squad Members Applaud Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Incident in Premier League
Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Dressing Room Response
Gueye did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.
- Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
- The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- Additionally he apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
- Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad
Possible Ramifications
Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Ban and National Team Commitments
Everton could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.
'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'
Opposition Reaction
At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging
The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'
