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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal 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

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'