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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' he wrote on his accounts. 'I accept complete responsibility for my actions.'

Team Response

Gueye was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the whole team and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye could still be punished by Everton despite Moyes' statement that he likes his players competing with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the new year. The Senegalese international will complete a three-match suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt accused his team of lacking immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' 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 head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'