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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Potential Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'