Toffees Teammates Give Applause to Gueye Following Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure 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 Response

Gueye did not get an chance to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

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

United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'