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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' display was heroic as they competed with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure 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 36-year-old asked to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected 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. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run 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's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'