Everton Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Apology for Keane Incident

The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'