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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary 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 teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

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

• He expressed regret 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 said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'