Everton Teammates Give Applause to Gueye After Apology for Keane Slap
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Incident in Premier League
The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed 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,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Reaction
Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.
- He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the head
- The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
- He also said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the players
Potential Ramifications
Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.
Suspension and National Team Commitments
Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.
'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Perspective
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult
The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'