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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 the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be sent off for hitting a fellow player in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' he wrote on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Response

The Senegalese international did not get an chance to speak with Moyes or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the entire group and the defender in particular.

• He expressed regret to the defender for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• His apology were warmly received by the squad

Possible Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be disciplined by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his players competing with each other. Moyes has a standard disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and National Team Commitments

Everton may find themselves without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he can return to play against the Blues on mid-December.

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

Opposition Reaction

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

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' who drop back it's difficult

United head to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'