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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

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 struck his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

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

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'