Vitalii Mykolenko and David Moyes looking at each other with a Newcastle player in the middle (unidentifiable)
Credit: Imago
Jacob Raw
Fri 28 November 2025 17:40, UK
David Moyes will see Vitalii Mykolenko’s presence as the only way that Everton can beat Newcastle on Saturday.
Everton host Newcastle for another mouthwatering Premier League clash, which will truly show how far the Toffees can go this campaign.
Moyes broke his woeful curse against Manchester United last time out in the league as the Blues ran out of Old Trafford with a sensational 1-0 victory to their name.
Everton want to achieve European football this season, and though the Magpies are out of form, Eddie Howe still has a main weapon that can hurt the Toffees.
Everton manager David Moyes looking unimpressed
Credit: Imago
Vitalii Mykolenko has to neutralise Newcastle’s creative spark – Jacob Murphy
There have been suggestions that Everton will be in the market for a new left-back come the January transfer window, with Mykolenko drawing split opinion from many.
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However, the Toffees could do a lot worse than the Ukrainian, and it just so happens that he is emerging as Everton’s key to three points against the Magpies.
Newcastle’s right-winger, Jacob Murphy, has created the most big chances for Newcastle this season with four, and Mykolenko needs to do everything he can to stop the Englishman.
Games Goals Assists Average rating
11 2 1 6.92
Jacob Murphy’s Premier League stats for Newcastle this season, according to Sofascore
Murphy racked up 12 assists for Howe’s side last season and is still managing to stand out as Newcastle’s best outlet in the final third.
Moyes needs to be loud and clear with his message to Mykolenko, and that should be simple – stop the cross.
Murphy’s creative statistics are frightening, but other readings prove that Mykolenko is the man to stop him.
Mykolenko’s underlying stats show importance to Everton
Moyes may still seek more defensive additions in January, even if the Blues keep their good form up.
It would be harsh if the head coach was to replace the left-back, but at the end of the day, the Friedkin Group will trust him.
While Mykolenko rarely grabs the headlines, he consistently goes under the radar with his defensive output.
mykolenko graphic
Credit: Sofascore
The Ukrainian wins 3.10 duels per game, and has a record of 3.30 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, which could come up vital against Murphy.
The 26-year-old may not have a starting spot nailed down for much longer on Merseyside, but he has the makings to prove himself a hero versus Newcastle.
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