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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure 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.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'