Toffees Squad Members Applaud Gueye After Sincere Apology for Keane Incident
Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.
Unprecedented Incident in English Football
The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.
'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'
Dressing Room Reaction
The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender in particular.
- Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
- The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
- Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
- His apology were warmly received by the players
Possible Consequences
The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.
Ban and National Team Duty
The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.
'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'
Rival Reaction
Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.
- 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
- 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
- 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging
The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'