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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped 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' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

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

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'