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

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' 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 multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'