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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'