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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON 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.'

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'