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The Everton midfielder was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Incident in Premier League

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display 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 visiting manager in 18 attempts.

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

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by Everton despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure 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 midfielder until the new year. The Senegalese international will serve a three-game ban against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Forest but might be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Perspective

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no urgency 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'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

United travel to Selhurst Park for the weekend noon kickoff. 'The next game is really important now,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'