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

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

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

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• '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. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'