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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking 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 team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

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