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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

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 match. The Toffees' performance was heroic as they played with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which ended their winning streak at five games.

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