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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance 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 away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

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

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which ended 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,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'