Toffees Teammates Give Applause to Gueye Following Apology for Keane Slap
Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.
Unprecedented Situation in Premier League
Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Dressing Room Response
The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.
- Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
- The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
- Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad
Potential Consequences
The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.
Ban and International Commitments
Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.
'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Reaction
At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult
United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'