Toffees Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Apology for Michael Keane Slap
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Incident in English Football
Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure 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 his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'
Team Reaction
Gueye did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the entire group and Keane in particular.
- He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the head
- The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
- His apology were positively accepted by the squad
Possible Consequences
Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Suspension and International Commitments
Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'
Opposition Perspective
Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused United of lacking urgency 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'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult
The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'