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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Opposition Reaction

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

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'