Everton’s James Tarkowski was immense vs Chelsea

James Tarkowski had one of his best performances in a blue shirt today and didn’t deserve to be on the losing team.

Tarkowski made a couple of excellent carries out from the back and was dominant in his duels, winning five on the ground and five in the air.

The 33-year-old looked every inch of an England international on that pitch, and his Sofascore statistics certainly amplify his brilliant display.

• 90 minutes
• 67 touches
• 11 carries
• 5 ground duels won
• 5 aerial duels won
• 3 recoveries
• 3 clearances
• 1 interception
• 1 blocked shot
• 1 key pass

Tarkowski even made one key pass, so on another day, he could’ve come away with an assist to his name.

He spoke to Everton’s media team after the game and urged his teammates to remain positive ahead of a trip to the Emirates Stadium next weekend.

“It was our first defeat, so we can’t be too down,” Tarkowski explained.

“It’s a long season. You’re going to suffer setbacks at times, and this is one of them. Last season, we dealt with setbacks pretty well and we always responded nicely, so let’s look forward to next week against another top side.

“Hopefully, we can prepare well this week and put a performance in.”