Everton Teammates Give Applause to Idrissa Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Michael Keane Slap

The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, 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,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'