James Tarkowski Of Everton during the Everton FC v West Ham United FC English Premier League match at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, England, U...
Credit: Imago / Sky Sports
Harri Burton
Mon 23 March 2026 15:30, UK
James Tarkowski should be watched closely by Premier League officials following an incident between Everton and Chelsea.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the Toffees’ No.6 had clearly elbowed Wesley Fofana in the penalty area on Saturday, 21 March.
Liam Rosenior’s side were crying out for a spot-kick at 3-0 down, only for the calls to fall upon deaf ears. It has emerged that, despite quite a reckless use of the arm, the final decision was offside.
David Moyes’ side sealed the win in style, with Iliman Ndiaye adding to Beto’s brace at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and while the penalty wouldn’t have made much of a difference, it remains a key talking point.
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James Tarkowski ‘got away with one’ on Wesley Fofana
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “He got away with one, didn’t he? There’s no question that his challenge is illegal, and that he’s very fortunate not to see a penalty kick awarded.
“The referees need to understand the players they’re officiating on the day. He’s one to watch, one to keep an eye on because he’s a serial offender.
“He’s got a mean streak, and referees need to be aware of that. Go alongside him during the game and say, ‘I’m keeping an eye on you’.
James Tarkowski vs Chelsea Stats [FotMob]
Minutes played 90
Touches 49
Shot accuracy 50% (1/2)
Clearances 4
Recoveries 4
Aerial duels won 67% (2/3)
“I do understand, however, that no action was taken on Tarkowski’s elbow because they had given offside.”
How did Chelsea fans react to the incident?
By no means do Chelsea supporters believe that the incident would have made any difference to the result, but it has frustrated many due to the lack of reaction.
Even at the time, there was very limited debate about the contentious moment, with very little explanation of why the penalty had not been awarded despite such a blatant infringement.
What does Tarkowski need to do to get a red card? Clearly elbows Fofana in the stomach, no VAR check, nothing…
Game was already done by then though, because bar Estevao, most of the players were too busy worrying about how difficult it will be to get out their 8 year contracts
— Peachy (@Peach_P3rfect) March 21, 2026
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Supporters inside the stadium are often left in the dark, even when information is displayed on the screens, and officials announcing their decision via a microphone also leave many baffled.
Football Insider understands that Rosenior is not under immediate threat at Chelsea following the defeat, but it certainly hasn’t done the manager any favours.
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