Everton Squad Members Applaud Gueye Following Sincere Apology for Keane Slap

Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing 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 Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'