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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's performance was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes 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 chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were positively accepted by the players

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Perspective

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

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United 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.'