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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during the recent triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Duty

The Merseyside club may find themselves without their key midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on 13 December.

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

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed United of showing no immediacy in Monday's loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'