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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, 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,' he wrote on social media. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

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

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

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

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

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'