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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

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

• '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 head to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'