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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

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.'