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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. '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. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended 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,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'