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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

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

Ban and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'