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

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

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