Toffees Teammates Applaud Gueye Following Apology for Michael Keane Incident
The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Situation in Premier League
The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Reaction
Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane specifically.
- He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
- The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the players
Possible Ramifications
Gueye could still be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.
Ban and International Duty
Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-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 loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.
- 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging
United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'