Everton Teammates Applaud Gueye Following Apology for Keane Incident

The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'