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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'