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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary red card during the recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Rare Situation in English Football

Gueye became the first Premier League player to be sent off for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. The Toffees' display was remarkable as they played with a man down for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' initial victory at Old Trafford as a away coach in 18 attempts.

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

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an chance to speak with the manager or his teammates at half-time. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the veteran asked to address the entire group and Keane in particular.

• He expressed regret to Keane for slapping him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• He also said sorry to the team for putting them with a monumental task
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old could still be disciplined by the club despite the manager's admission that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is expected to be applied in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on mid-December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Rival Reaction

Meanwhile, Mathijs de Ligt claimed his team of showing no immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

The Red Devils travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'