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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he slapped Michael Keane during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to address the entire group and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for slapping him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be punished by Everton despite the manager's admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-match suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused United of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'