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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 triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first 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 the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass 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 squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides 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 must recover strongly from this display.'