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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members fighting 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 National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'