Everton Squad Members Give Applause to Gueye Following Apology for Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

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

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking 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 Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'