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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 Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'