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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'