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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

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