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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'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 chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'