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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's 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'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'