adminMichael Keane has addressed one of the season’s most debated incidents, insisting there was no intent behind his involvement in the controversial red card against Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare.
The moment quickly became a major talking point, with fans and pundits divided over the decision. Everton boss David Moyes made his stance clear, admitting he was “angry” after the club’s appeal was turned down.
From Keane’s perspective, however, the incident was purely accidental. It came during a crucial match in which his first-half header had given Everton the lead before the game eventually ended 1-1. Reflecting on the dismissal, Keane said he was frustrated, especially given how well he felt he was performing.
“I was gutted because I thought I was playing really well,” he explained. “Honestly, I felt it was a nothing sending-off. Some people won’t believe me, but I didn’t mean to pull his hair. It was just a natural jump and his hair ended up in my hand.”
Looking at Keane’s 15-year professional career, there is little to suggest any history of violent conduct. From his early days at Manchester United through spells at Burnley and now Everton, the 33-year-old has built a reputation as a composed and reliable defender—qualities regularly praised by both teammates and Moyes.
That said, it hasn’t been a quiet season for Keane. He was also involved in another unusual red-card incident earlier in the campaign at Old Trafford, when teammate Idrissa Gueye struck him in the face. Gueye was sent off, but Keane went on to help Everton secure an impressive win at his former club’s ground.
Fortunately, there were no lingering issues between the pair. Gueye later apologised both privately and publicly, with Keane confirming there were no hard feelings. “It was fine,” he said with a smile. “He spoke to me after the game and called me again later. Everything was sorted.”
Away from those strange moments, Keane has quietly enjoyed one of his strongest seasons. Last summer, he had expected to leave Everton, the club he joined from Burnley for £30 million in 2017 after a career filled with ups and downs.
Despite periods out of the team, Keane has consistently shown professionalism and commitment, earning respect within the squad. His contributions have also extended beyond defending, with a number of crucial and spectacular goals over the years.
Among them are memorable strikes against Tottenham Hotspur and Ipswich Town, reinforcing the belief among many that he remains one of Everton’s most clinical finishers. However, perhaps his most important goal came against Crystal Palace under Frank Lampard—a key moment in the comeback victory that ultimately secured Everton’s Premier League survival.
What stands out most about Keane’s journey is his resilience. He has battled through criticism and difficult periods to re-establish himself as a vital figure in the squad, enjoying an impressive run of form across the past 12 months.
He admits that regaining the trust of the fans has meant a great deal to him. “Turning it around has been really special,” he said. “First for myself, to prove what I can do, but also to win back the fans’ support—it’s been amazing. It gives you that extra edge on the pitch, and I’ve felt that all season. I just want to say thank you to them.”
Keane ended last season strongly, delivering standout performances including a goal in the comeback win at Fulham and a commanding display at Newcastle. Even so, his future remained uncertain as his contract neared its end.
While Everton explored other defensive options—reportedly considering Brighton’s Adam Webster—Moyes remained a strong supporter of Keane. That backing ultimately led to a contract extension, a decision that has proven crucial, particularly with Jarrad Branthwaite sidelined by injury.
This season, Keane has made 27 league appearances and played a key role in important victories, including a statement win over Chelsea before the international break. His resurgence has mirrored Everton’s own improved fortunes, with the club now pushing for a potential European place after years of relegation battles.
With seven games remaining, Keane believes everything is still to play for. “That’s been our aim from the start,” he said. “We’ve put ourselves in a strong position. The next two games—Brentford away and Liverpool at home—are massive. If we get good results, we’ll be right in the mix. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
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