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

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak 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'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'