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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old 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 red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• '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

United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'