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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'