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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating 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 intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'