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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'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 opportunity 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 entire group and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United head 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.'