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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, 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,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'