James Tarkowski apologised to Liverpool star for 'leg-breaker' tackle in Merseyside derby

James Tarkowski said sorry to Alexis Mac Allisterafter delivering a vicious challenge that was labelled a potential "leg-breaker." The reckless lunge by the Everton defender happened during the Toffees' visit to Anfield in April.

The visitors were defeated 1-0 thanks to the late Diogo Jota's final goal for Liverpool. Derby matches can often become heated, but Tarkowski overstepped the mark when he caught the Argentine high on his ankle, leaving the World Cup winner in agony on the turf.

Whilst many anticipated a red card would be shown to the Englishman, referee Sam Barrott instead produced a yellow. VAR Paul Tierney then declined to suggest an on-field review to his colleague.

Tarkowski was able to complete the remainder of the match without earning a second yellow. It was only moments after the final whistle thathe approached Mac Allister to say sorry for his challenge.

The Liverpool midfielder appeared to have accepted his apology, but that didn't prevent the likes of Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher expressing their disbelief post-match that the centre-back wasn't sent off.

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Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville said: "That's a potential leg-breaker. I think he's very lucky there. There will be those that say it's a natural follow-through.

"If you're a defender, Carragher will be able to tell you even better than me, you don't need to follow through like that. Such force, and it's high. He's very lucky." Carragher echoed Neville's sentiments, stating: "The ref should give it on the pitch, [but] for Paul Tierney to not give it on VAR is shocking."

The Premier League Match Centre provided an explanation for the controversial decision after the match. Their statement read: "The referee's call of yellow card for a reckless foul by Tarkowski was checked by the VAR, with contact on the follow through after Tarkowski had played the ball deemed to be reckless."

Arne Slot also weighed in on the incident, although he didn't directly express his dissatisfaction with the refereeing decision, instead commenting: "So many people gave their opinion and a lot of people who are not in favour of Liverpool were so clear about it."

It was only four matches after their victory against Everton that Liverpool clinched the Premier League title in the Dutchman's debut season at the club.

The Reds secured the title in grand style with a 5-1 thrashing of Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, marking only their second league title in the Premier League era, following Jurgen Klopp's success in the 2019/20 season.

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