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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Team Response

Gueye did not get an chance to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' 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 noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'