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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they competed 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.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused United of showing no urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

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