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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes 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 opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• 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 putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he can return 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 accused United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'