Will Crystal Palace's Uche face FA action over apparent punch on Everton CB? Ex-PL ref has his say

Crystal Palace midfielder Christantus Uche is set to avoid any retrospective punishment from the Football Association following his recent incident against Everton. 

The Nigeria international appeared to jab England defender James Tarkowski in the stomach shortly after entering the game in the 89th minute of last Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League defeat at Goodison Park.

Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has confirmed why Uche is unlikely to face action.

"Christantus Uche is unlikely to face any retrospective action after appearing to punch James Tarkowski on Sunday,” Clattenburg said to We Are Palace. 

He added that the incident was reviewed by VAR but judged not to warrant a red card. 

"The Football Association do not re-referee matches when incidents are seen by the match officials, which now includes VAR. 

"I do believe, however, that VAR should have recommended a review for a red card for violent conduct."

Clattenburg also highlighted that before the introduction of VAR, the FA could have taken retrospective action if match officials had missed the incident. 

Tarkowski's response during the incident prevented a stricter outcome, which could have seen Uche receive a straight red card and a three-match ban.

Uche has seen his game time limited since his arrival at Selhurst Park, on loan from La Liga outfit Getafe, logging 52 minutes in three appearances across all competitions. 

He is currently at the Super Eagles training camp in South Africa as the three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions prepare for their final two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin. 

Wale Adejumo

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