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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye could still be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run 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 becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'