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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words 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 team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'