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The Everton midfielder received a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's display was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including added time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran requested to speak to the whole team and the defender in particular.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he likes his team members fighting with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the new year. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their winning streak at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'The next game is really important now,' commented the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'