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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

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