Everton defender, James Tarkowski has signed a three-year contract extension until June 2028.
Since his arrival on Merseyside in summer 2022, Tarkowski has scored four goals in 128 appearances and has now accepted terms on a three-year contract extension until June 2028.
“I’m super excited and proud to be an Everton player and to continue this journey,” explained Tarkowski to evertontv, as he spoke of the Toffees’ rollercoaster of relegation scraps in recent seasons amidst an ownership change in December 2024.
“It’s been a crazy few years with some big lows and some massive highs. We’ve managed to get through those tough times and hopefully now we’re on to more positive and exciting times ahead.
“I think the intention has been set out from the start of this season.
“I’ve loved every minute so far of working under the manager [David Moyes]. He has made it clear where we’re going with this club. The results and performances have really improved in his time here and it does seem to be going in one direction.
“The reason I’ve signed is because I want to be a part of that. Now it’s up to us as players to get on board and take us in that direction.”
Tarkowski added that Evertonians mirror his character which allowed him to adapt as well as he has done after seven years at Burnley between 2015 – 22.
“They’re proud, honest people. You know what they’re feeling and what they’re thinking straight away. That’s probably the kind of person I am myself.
“I’ve taken to this club really well and I’ve really enjoyed my time here, even though it has been turbulent at times.
“I’ve been lucky enough to lead this team out a few times now and every time I do it, it makes me massively proud. Everyone knows Seamus is the true leader of this group but I’m here to support him and it makes me very proud every time I get to put that armband on.”
Everton Men this summer moved from Goodison Park to Hill Dickinson Stadium and are unbeaten at home this season, but the 32-year-old defender felt that the unbeaten form has helped them settle into their new home.
“There was a lot of talk when we left Goodison about what it was going to be like at the new stadium,” reflected Tarkowski. “I know it’s probably helped that the results have been pretty good so far, with two wins and two draws in the league – but the atmosphere for me has been incredible.
“People keep asking me what it’s like to play there. It’s probably the best atmosphere I’ve ever experienced.
“I know Goodison had some special, special moments but for week-in, week-out, so far, the atmosphere has been outstanding. What an amazing experience to be able to walk out on to that pitch every other week.”
Tarkowski though now has his sights set on achieving European qualification with Everton and reaching the group stage, after he missed out in the play-offs with Burnley in 2018-19 season.
“It’s always been an ambition of mine to play European football. I had a brief spell with Burnley in the qualifiers but we didn’t make it to the group stages, so I want to get there.
“It’s the manager’s goal, it’s our goal as a team and, so far, we’ve started pretty well. Of course, it could have been better but we’ve had a decent start and we’re definitely striving to get into those European spots and bring European football to our new stadium.”
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