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

The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added 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 social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates 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 implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• '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 becomes challenging

United 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.'