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

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'