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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'