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

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being 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 fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass 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

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

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

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'