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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote 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 half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including fines, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'