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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking immediacy in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'