Everton Squad Members Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye After Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head 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.'