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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. 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 striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot 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 Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham 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,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

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