Everton manager David Moyes has strongly condemned the online abuse directed at defender James Tarkowski, following his controversial challenge during Wednesday’s Merseyside derby.

Tarkowski faced a torrent of backlash after a heavy tackle on Alexis Mac Allister, which resulted in a yellow card. The incident sparked widespread debate, particularly after Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) admitted that VAR had erred in not recommending a red card.

The situation escalated when Tarkowski’s wife, Samantha, revealed on Instagram that the couple had received disturbing abuse, including death threats, prompting Everton to issue an official statement. The club "strongly condemned" the abuse and confirmed it was prepared to work with social media platforms and assist the police in any subsequent investigation.

“It’s unacceptable for anyone in any walk of life,” said Moyes.

“We have to hold our hands up — having looked at it again, I think it potentially could have been a sending-off. But that in no way justifies the vile abuse James has received online.

“I don’t personally engage with social media and have little interest in it, but I recognise that for younger people, it’s become part of daily life. That doesn’t make this sort of behaviour right, and I believe we should all be unequivocal in condemning it.”

Samantha Tarkowski expressed the emotional toll the abuse had taken on their family in a heartfelt Instagram post.

“The level of abuse my husband is receiving — wishing death upon him, vile comments about me, about us as a couple, and about him as a person — is beyond disgusting,” she wrote.

“People forget he is more than a footballer. He is a husband, a son, a brother, a friend, and, most importantly, the father of our two children.

“Football is a sport, but the way some so-called fans behave is disgraceful. The abuse and threats are not passion — they’re pathetic. We’re real people, and this goes far beyond football.”

Moyes acknowledged that social media was now an entrenched part of life for professional footballers, but stressed that players are offered guidance and support in handling such issues.

“We have people who come in and speak to the players every year — whether from the PFA, LMA, or the Premier League — explaining the risks and realities of engaging on social media.

“The players are well educated; they should know whether to use it or not. Ultimately, it's their choice — but support is always available.”

The controversy threatens to overshadow Everton’s clash with Arsenal at Goodison Park this afternoon. The Toffees have the opportunity to influence the title race by taking points off Mikel Arteta’s second-placed side.