Toffees Teammates Applaud Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Keane Incident
The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.
Rare Incident in Premier League
The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win 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 did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team 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
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the squad
Potential Consequences
Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.
Ban and International Duty
Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Reaction
Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult
United travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'