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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye 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 played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. '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. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• '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,' who drop back it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'