Toffees Squad Members Applaud Idrissa Gueye After Apology for Michael Keane Incident
Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.
Rare Situation in Premier League
Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance 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 visiting manager in 18 attempts.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'
Dressing Room Reaction
The Senegalese international did not get an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.
- He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
- The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
- Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players
Potential Consequences
Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.
Ban and International Commitments
The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.
'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'
Rival Reaction
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult
The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'