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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up 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. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak 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,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'