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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, 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 accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye could still be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted 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 becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'