In a tense Merseyside derby, Everton’s James Tarkowski received a yellow card for a challenging tackle on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister, but former Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes he was fortunate not to be sent off.
Tarkowski’s foul in the first half raised questions about the severity of the challenge and whether a red card was warranted.
Neville Expresses Concern Over Tarkowski’s Challenge
Gary Neville didn’t hold back his criticism of the tackle during his analysis on Sky Sports.
He described it as a “potential leg breaker” and felt Tarkowski was extremely lucky to escape a red card. “That’s a potential leg breaker,” Neville said. “I think he’s very lucky there.
There will be those who will say it’s a natural follow-through, but trust me, as a defender, you do not need to follow through like that.
It’s with such force, and it’s high. He’s very lucky.”
Mike Dean Supports Neville’s View on Tarkowski’s Challenge
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean echoed Neville’s sentiments, stating that Tarkowski should have been sent off. “That is a horrible challenge,” Dean said.
“The referee should have gone to the screen, and Tarkowski should have been off.
It is a red card all day.” Dean’s comments highlighted how serious the tackle appeared to be and questioned the decision-making process of referee Sam Barrott.
VAR Checks and Premier League Explanation
The Premier League clarified the decision via a statement on social media, explaining that the VAR had reviewed the incident.
According to the statement, the initial yellow card issued for the “reckless foul” by Tarkowski was upheld after the VAR checked the follow-through.
The contact after Tarkowski had played the ball was deemed to be reckless, rather than malicious, which led to the decision to keep the yellow card.
Tarkowski’s Impact Despite the Controversial Tackle
Despite the controversy surrounding the yellow card, Tarkowski played a crucial role in the Merseyside derby.
He had been the hero in the previous meeting between Everton and Liverpool, scoring a dramatic late winner in what was the last-ever derby at Goodison Park.
Although his tackle sparked debate, Tarkowski’s contribution to Everton’s defense and his past performance in the derby have kept him in the spotlight.