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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'