Everton defender James Tarkowski caused a social media stir when a trailer for a forthcoming reality show went viral.
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Tarkowski to star in new Amazon Prime showTrailer of defender complimenting wife goes viralUnimpressed fans call for Everton points deductionWHAT HAPPENED?
The clip released by Amazon Prime to promote the upcoming series featured the uncompromising centre-back flirting with his wife Samantha at a summer party. Samantha said that "everyone looks so gorgeous" before the Everton star replied with the compliment: "Especially you."
The clip soon rattled up almost ten million views, with rivals fans predictably unforgiving in their verdict.
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"Everton deserve another 10 points deduction for that trailer alone," chimed @clarkey85steve on X.
Another quip came in from @lukehayles, who wrote: "Was just saying to the lads down the pub that I was desperate for James Tarkowski to be on a reality dating show."
"It was a smooth line until he followed it up and the awkward laugh," was the analysis of @fpldodge.
Meanwhile, @Danthedon1878 stated: "Tarkowski being a love island bombshell wasn’t on my 2024 bingo card."
The Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast added: "In the list of surprising turn of events this morning, James Tarkowski becoming a reality TV star is definitely top."
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Footballers and their partners on television was once a fictional domain, dominated by the ITV hit which ran from 2002 to 2006. But the move towards reality-based shows has incorporated some players and their partners, with several featuring in a series based in the area famous for being the home to footballers who ply their trade in the north west of England.
As well as the newly-wed Tarkowskis, is set to feature the partners of Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, Jorginho and USMNT keeper Matt Turner.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR EVERTON?
Toffees fans are nervously awaiting the outcome of the club's appeal against the 10-point deduction with a verdict expected any day soon. Tarkowski, meanwhile, will probably face plenty of ribbing from his team-mates for his reality television performances when returning to action for Everton against Brighton on Saturday.