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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added 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 his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

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

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'