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

The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

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

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'