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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak 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,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'