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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance 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 away coach in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'