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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended 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

United head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'