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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' 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 Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'