Toffees Squad Members Applaud Idrissa Gueye After Apology for Michael Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

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

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'