Everton Squad Members Applaud Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Incident
Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.
Rare Situation in English Football
Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable 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 multiple tries.
'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Team Reaction
Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the entire group and the defender in particular.
- Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
- The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
- Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
- His apology were positively accepted by the squad
Potential Consequences
The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.
Suspension and International Duty
The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.
'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'
Opposition Reaction
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.
- 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
- 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult
United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'
