However, the Sunderland boss has now confirmed the three have been punished accordingly and will be in contention for Sunderland's encounter with Stoke tomorrow night at the Stadium of Light.
"The three players involved were late for the bus, and more than 10 minutes late, and we couldn't wait any longer," said Keane on Sky Sports News.
"The players made a mistake. I've spoken to them this morning and it's all forgotten about.
"I think we all make mistakes, I've made a few and I'm sure they're going to make many more, but they've held their hands up and we move on.
"I'm not here to crucify the players. They're human beings, they made a mistake and we now get ready for Tuesday.
"I had to make a decision that I felt was right for the team and the club, and fortunately for us we won the game.
"I'd like to think I'm a fair person and fair with the players - even this morning there was no problem.
"The players took it on the chin, we move on and they have a good chance of being involved with us tomorrow night."