English Premier League
Potential FA sanction hangs over Christantus Uche after clash with Tarkowski
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Crystal Palace forward Christantus Uche could face retrospective scrutiny following a heated off-the-ball altercation with Everton defender James Tarkowski during Sunday’s 2–1 defeat at Goodison Park.
The incident occurred in the closing moments of the match after Uche was introduced as an 89th-minute substitute.
Television replays appeared to show the Nigerian forward jabbing Tarkowski in the stomach, sparking a brief but intense confrontation between the players.
Although the clash was subject to an immediate VAR review for possible violent conduct, no on-field or post-match disciplinary action was taken. However, questions remain over whether the Football Association (FA) might re-examine the footage and issue a retrospective ban.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg, speaking to We Are Palace, downplayed the likelihood of further action, citing current FA disciplinary guidelines.
“Christantus Uche is unlikely to face any retrospective action after appearing to punch James Tarkowski on Sunday,” Clattenburg said.
“The incident would have been checked by VAR and deemed not worthy of a red card. The Football Association does not re-referee matches when incidents are seen by the match officials, which now includes VAR.”
Clattenburg, however, questioned the VAR team’s judgment in not recommending an on-field review.
“I do believe the VAR should have recommended a review for a red card for violent conduct,” he added.
Under current FA regulations, retrospective action can only be taken if the incident was completely missed by match officials and the VAR team—a high threshold that makes further punishment in this case unlikely.
Unless new or unseen evidence emerges, the matter appears to be closed, though the incident has added to growing concerns over VAR consistency and the handling of potential violent conduct.
