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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his shocking red card during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the 36-year-old asked to speak to the whole team and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized 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 punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

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

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'