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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory 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 Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, 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,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'