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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager 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

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to converse with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and Keane in particular.

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

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing 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 Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

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

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'