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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after issuing an explanation for his shocking red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder became the first Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he struck Michael Keane during the match. Everton's performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a away coach in multiple tries.

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

Dressing Room Reaction

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to speak with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the entire group and Keane in particular.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the face
• The intense 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Potential Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes 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.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the new year. Gueye will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of lacking urgency in Monday's loss, which ended their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for the weekend noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'