James Tarkowski to land five-figure fine after Everton 'fighting among themselves'

Everton captain Tarkowski faces a potential £15,000–£25,000 fine from the FA for criticising referee Tony Harrington's performance after Arsenal's 2-0 win.

James Tarkowski could be hit with a five-figure fine after his post-match comments about referee Tony Harrington following Everton's 2-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The Everton captain labelled Harrington's performance "very poor" and said the team was given "absolutely nothing" by the official.

Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking to Football Insider, expects the FA to sanction Tarkowski with a fine in the region of £15,000 to £25,000. Wyness noted that because Tarkowski questioned the referee's competence rather than integrity, the punishment is likely to be less severe than it could have been. He suggested Tarkowski was attempting to lead as captain and voice frustrations the manager David Moyes could not publicly express himself.

Wyness also highlighted defensive issues at Everton, pointing to "fighting amongst themselves" between Tarkowski and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford over the soft goals conceded, though he acknowledged the captain's willingness to take responsibility publicly.