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The Everton midfielder received a round of applause from his fellow squad members after issuing an apology for his extraordinary dismissal during Monday's triumph at Manchester United.

Rare Situation in Premier League

The midfielder earned the distinction of being the first Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in 17 years when he struck his defensive colleague during the match. The Toffees' display was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added 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 his accounts. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his teammates at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room buzzing after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to speak to the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to the defender for striking him across the head
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for putting them with a difficult challenge
• His apology were warmly received by the players

Potential Consequences

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his team members fighting with each other. The Scot has a regular punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and International Duty

Everton could be without their influential player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be called up for AFCON responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Rival Perspective

At the same time, the Manchester United defender claimed his team of showing no immediacy in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at five games.

• 'The Premier League is not for the weak,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United head to Crystal Palace for Sunday's lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We must recover strongly from this display.'