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

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became 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 fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

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

United head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'