Toffees Teammates Applaud Idrissa Gueye Following Apology for Michael Keane Incident

Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage 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,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'