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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'