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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. The Toffees' display was remarkable 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 visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed United of lacking immediacy in Monday's loss, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'