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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve 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 social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

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

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, 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. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• '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 must recover strongly from this display.'