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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win 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

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their winning streak 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,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'