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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure 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 accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'