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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye 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. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated 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 travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'