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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. '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 asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might 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. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, 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. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'