Toffees Teammates Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye After Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap

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

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players competing with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by his national team 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

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated 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 Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'