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

Rare 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 nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

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

Potential Consequences

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'