Everton Condemn Death Threats Against Tarkowski After Merseyside Derby
Everton Condemn Death Threats to Tarkowski
Everton Football Club has strongly condemned the death threats directed at defender James Tarkowski and his family following his tackle on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during Wednesday’s Merseyside derby at Anfield.
Tarkowski was booked for the late challenge, but the Premier League’s refereeing body, PGMOL, later stated that he should have been sent off.
Despite this, the club has denounced the abuse, calling it “completely unacceptable” and pledging to support Tarkowski and his wife, Samantha, while cooperating with social media companies and law enforcement.
“The club is liaising with James and his wife Samantha and stands ready to engage with the social media companies and assist the police with any potential investigation,” Everton stated.
“Everton strongly condemns any form of online or offline intimidation, threats, or abuse directed at players, staff, or their families.”
Tarkowski’s wife, Samantha, also voiced her outrage on Instagram, describing the abuse as “beyond disgusting.” She criticized so-called fans for their behavior, emphasizing that her husband is more than just a footballer—he is a father, husband, and human being.
Following the match, Tarkowski apologized to Mac Allister on the pitch, explaining that he had misjudged the challenge.
“I spoke to him and apologised because it was not a great tackle,” he told Premier League Productions. “He accepted it, so not a great one from me.”
PGMOL later acknowledged that the tackle met the threshold for serious foul play and that an on-field review should have been recommended to referee Sam Barrott.
However, VAR official Paul Tierney did not deem the initial decision a “clear and obvious error.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot welcomed PGMOL’s admission of an officiating mistake, stating, “Mistakes are being made, but the most important thing is that it doesn’t influence the league table.”
Meanwhile, Everton boss David Moyes admitted Tarkowski was fortunate to remain on the pitch but firmly condemned the online abuse.
“It is not acceptable for anybody in any walk of life,” he said. “Just because a player could have been sent off doesn’t mean they should face threats or abuse.”
As the incident continues to spark debate, Everton remains committed to protecting its players and pushing for accountability in online spaces.
Everton Condemn Death Threats to Tarkowski
