Gary Neville and Everton star James Tarkowski looking confused.
(Credit: Imago)
Declan Carr
Tue 19 August 2025 7:10, UK
Gary Neville was left scratching his head at James Tarkowski in Everton’s 1-0 opening day defeat to Leeds United on Monday evening.
David Moyes‘ side were dominated for the majority of the Elland Road contest, and even Jack Grealish, making his Everton debut, could not change their fortunes.
The atmosphere in Yorkshire seemed too much for many of the Everton stars, and ultimately, the Whites came away with all three points after a contentious penalty.
Unfortunately for Tarkowski, Neville’s attention was for all the wrong reasons.
David Moyes shouting at Everton
Moyes was left furious after the loss. (Credit: Imago)
Neville slams Tarkowski for Everton penalty controversy
Tarkowski conceded a hugely controversial penalty in the 84th minute, which Lukas Nmecha slotted, and he insisted that it was not a spot kick after the contest.
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However, the former Manchester United star, now Sky Sports pundit, was having none of that, claiming that he can have no excuses and it was a penalty.
Speaking on Sky Sports Premier League after the contest (18 August, 22:26), Neville said: “If you just watch this, he sees it coming, he leans down, there, and across.
David Jones interrupted: “Well, he says he’s trying to get his body in the way; he is leaning across because he’s trying to get his body in the way.”
Neville replied: “If it comes from 15/20 yards away, Dave, you’ve got no leg to stand on.”
Tarkowski may have no excuses
Unfortunately for Blues supporters, it may be the right decision.
There is no doubt that Tarkowski’s arm was behind the ball, but Neville is right, he leaned towards the ball, and that may make it a penalty, with the ever-changing rules.
He may not even have needed to intervene, as Jordan Pickford was in a great position to save the initial effort from range, which was deflected towards Tarkowski.
Ultimately, the Toffees’ performance was not good enough, and the hosts deserved to win on their return to the top-flight.
Everton had just 45 per cent of the possession
Leeds had 21 shots, compared to Everton’s seven
Leeds created 2.13xG, compared to Everton’s 0.80
The controversial nature of the defeat will sting for Moyes and Co., but it was the right result at the end of the day.
The result and showing from the Blues should make it clear to the Friedkin Group that Moyes needs further signings before the transfer window slams shut.
They have made a major coup bringing Grealish in, but they need more than just the Manchester City star to turn their fortunes around.
Moyes claimed that he wanted 10 new additions, and so far he has been handed just seven, including two back-up goalkeepers.
If they fail to do so, it could be a very long season for Evertonians.
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