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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

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

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'