Everton’s right back After his outstanding performance for Ukraine against North Macedonia on Saturday (October 14), Vitalii Mykolenko put his critics to rest.
Despite the fact that Ukraine has not yet qualified for Euro 2024, the Everton player’s performance brought them one step closer by showcasing his defensive and offensive skills for the Prague crowds.
This season, Mykolenko has received plenty of criticism. The 24-year-old has had a mixed bag of a season in Everton blue, some warranted, some not, as the Toffees have battled.
This season, following the Toffees’ Premier League loss to Luton Town, the former Dynamo Kyiv player came under fire. BBC Sport analyst Rachel Brown-Finnis referred to Mykolenko’s error for the Hatters’ opening goal as “shocking.”
She was right about Myko’s football at the time, but many people could think he doesn’t have much to offer the team or that he might be easily improved. He has, however, had some incredibly successful moments for Everton this year, and his performance in Prague demonstrated that he is still Sean Dyche’s preferred choice.
According to SofaScore, Mykolenko made three clearances, one interception, four wins in ground duels, and an important pass against North Macedonia over the entire 90 minutes of play.
Such an increase in self-assurance would be beneficial for Dyche going into the Merseyside derby. Before going back to Finch Farm, Mykolenko still has to play Malta, although another strong showing would help him before their trip to Anfield.
Mykolenko ought to have a solid case to establish himself as the starting left-back as Dyche searches for a lineup capable of staying in the Premier League. Mykolenko has only played four 90-minute periods of Premier League football this season, despite pushing Ashley Young to right-back and taking Ashley Young’s place there, according to FBRef.
Even though the Ukrainian is not beyond making a mistake or losing his focus, he has proven that he is not “shocking” and that he can play on the underdog team.
Read More: Everton: £120k-a-week star the ‘least Dyche player ever seen’ at Goodison Park
