Toffees Teammates Applaud Gueye Following Apology for Michael Keane Incident
Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology 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 sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable 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 18 attempts.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'
Dressing Room Response
Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.
- Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
- The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
- He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
- Gueye's words were warmly received by the players
Possible Ramifications
The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Suspension and National Team Commitments
Everton could be without their influential player until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Rival Perspective
At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult
United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'
