Vitalii Mykolenko’s impressive start to the season is beginning to earn recognition beyond Everton.
The Ukraine international has been singled out by the Guardian ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Ipswich Town, with Everton correspondent Andy Hunter describing the left-back’s early-season improvement as having gone “largely unheralded”.
Mykolenko has been a regular in a defence that has kept four clean sheets in Everton’s opening six competitive matches, while his performances have helped settle a position that looked potentially problematic during the summer.
Mykolenko providing stability for Everton
The 27-year-old signed a new three-year contract during the close season, while Adam Aznou was subsequently allowed to join Malaga on loan.
That left David Moyes short of obvious senior cover at left-back, but Mykolenko has started the campaign well enough to keep the issue largely in the background. There has been some attacking contribution too. His control and pass created Thierno Barry’s opening goal in the 4-0 Carabao Cup victory at Preston last month.
The Guardian also points to Mykolenko appearing physically stronger this season, with Hunter arguing that he has “kept his critics quiet” during Everton’s unbeaten opening weeks. Saturday brings another test against an Ipswich side who have scored seven goals in four Premier League matches.
Zian Flemming scored the late winner in their 3-2 victory at Crystal Palace last weekend, while Emersonn also found the net at Selhurst Park, although the Brazilian is a doubt for the trip to the Hill Dickinson with a hamstring problem.
Much of the attention around Everton’s defence this week has understandably fallen on Jarrad Branthwaite following his latest England recognition.
Mykolenko has attracted rather less of it. On the evidence so far this season, he is doing a decent job of changing that.
LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments
Moyes wants Everton to turn draws into wins as Ipswich test awaits
Moyes wants Everton to turn draws into wins as Ipswich test awaits
Moyes delighted for Branthwaite as Everton defender earns England recognition
Moyes delighted for Branthwaite as Everton defender earns England recognition