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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure 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 accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and Keane specifically.

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

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Ban and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which halted 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's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'