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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle, 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 mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'