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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

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

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'