Gary Neville has slammed James Tarkowski for the concession of the penalty in the Everton v Newcastle clash on 5 October.
The Magpies missed the resulting spot kick which saved the Toffees’ blushes as the game ended 0-0 at Goodison Park.
However, the former Manchester United captain believes that Tarkowski’s stupidity and aggression is what saw the referee point to the spot.
He told The Overlap US on 9 October at 12:44: “There was a decision later on in the day during the Everton vs Newcastle game where Tonali was pulled down by Tarkowski and he wouldn’t have gotten the ball either.
“There’s no way that swung ball in would have got to him. But I did think that was a penalty, even though it didn’t impact the play. Just because of the pure stupidity and the aggression of the hold.”
James Tarkowski let his teammates down and almost cost Everton the game
Tarkowski, known for his physicality, overstepped by engaging in an unnecessary and aggressive hold on Tonali, which, as Neville pointed out, wouldn’t have influenced the play’s outcome significantly.
This lapse in discipline not only risked conceding a penalty but also showcased a lack of awareness and in-game management expected from someone of his calibre.
In high-stakes matches, experienced players are expected to maintain composure and make calculated decisions, especially in scenarios where the ball is unlikely to reach the opponent.
His experience should dictate a more measured approach, focusing on intelligent defending rather than relying on physicality that can easily be penalised.
Last season, he was among the Toffees’ best players but this time around, he has arguably been among their worst.
Hopefully, Sean Dyche will explain these things to him and ensure that he’s a rejuvenated player on the other side of the international break.
In other Everton news, a catastrophic £451million revelation has emerged as the takeover saga takes yet another twist.
