Toffees Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Apology for Keane Incident

The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident 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 slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

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