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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• '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's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'