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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

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 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'