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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'