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

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'