Everton Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Apology for Michael Keane Slap

The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused 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'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'