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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'