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

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'