Everton Teammates Applaud Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak 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'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'