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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display 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,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'