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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck 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 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates 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 Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton may find themselves without their key player until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be selected for AFCON duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no urgency in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Crystal Palace for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'