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Idrissa Gueye received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology 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 team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

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