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Idrissa Gueye was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented 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 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, 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,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'