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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

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