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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 English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win 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

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity 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 asked to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'