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

Rare Situation in English Football

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a fellow player in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' performance was remarkable as they competed with 10 men for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory 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 Response

Gueye did not get an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The heated early altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Potential Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be punished by Everton despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be applied in this situation.

Suspension and National Team Duty

Everton could be without their key midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

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

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender accused his team of lacking urgency in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'