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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON 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 lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run 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's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'