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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing 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 face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'