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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory 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 fixture. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Netherlands international
• '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 the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'