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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

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

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

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

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'