'Serial offender' - PGMOL expert: Everton star 'one to watch' after 'illegal' Chelsea incident
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Credit: Imago / Sky Sports James Tarkowski is ‘one to watch’ after controversial Everton vs Chelsea incident: ‘Serial offender’ 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. 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 ChelseaStats [FotMob]Minutes played90Touches49Shot accuracy50% (1/2)Clearances4Recoveries4Aerial duels won67% (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.Corrupt VAR seem to be always favouring Everton for some reason. 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 View Tweet Again, English officials needs to stick to officiating in English football only because they are useless, you are telling me that they saw nothing wrong with Tarkowski elbow on Fofana?😭😭😭🤔— MehlokaZulu (@thulasizwe) March 21, 2026 View Tweet 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. 🔵 Everton FC Master Hub 🔵 The definitive digital directory for the Toffees.