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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, 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,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'