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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his shocking red card during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, 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,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up 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.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'