Everton were dealt the news they were hoping to avoid over the international break with yet another injury blow.
It has been a season filled with injury issues for Everton, who have seen their attacking options decimated already.
David Moyes wanted to sign a new full-back in the January transfer market, but the Friedkins were unable to do so.
Now, the Toffees have been hit with the news that Vitaliy Mykolenko has picked up an injury during international duty with Ukraine.
The club’s only natural left-back now awaits an official verdict on his injury issue.
And he has spoken out to the Ukrainian media ahead of his return to Merseyside where the injury will be fully assessed.
Photo by ANP via Getty Images
Photo by ANP via Getty Images
What Everton’s Vitaliy Mykolenko has said about his injury
Mykolenko picked up the injury in Ukraine’s second leg clash against Belgium in the Nations League.
With the likes of Iliman Ndiaye already out through injury, adding another regular starter to the treatment room is the last thing Moyes would’ve wanted.
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Speaking to the Ukrainian media, the left-back provided an update on his injury following the game against Belgium.
“I suffered an injury and will undergo examination at the club. I injured my thigh,” he said.
“We could not counter-attack and because of that, we had to defend a lot. In the next training camp, we will meet, analyse mistakes. Such moments also need to be experienced.”
Mykolenko is set to be offered a new Everton contract, to reward him for the tireless efforts he has shown at left-back this season.
The defender has been the only option in that position all season, and Moyes now faces a real dilemma as to who will not play at left-back with no other natural fit.
David Moyes without natural left-back for Merseyside Derby
A really interesting decision awaits Moyes ahead of the Merseyside Derby on Wednesday at left-back.
Jake O’Brien has shone for Everton playing at right-back, perhaps an option could be for him to return to centre-back and push Jarrad Branthwaite out on the left.
Alternatively, an experienced head like Ashley Young could possibly come in as Mykolenko’s direct replacement.
The issue for Everton is whoever is playing at left-back will be coming up against the Premier League’s top scorer Mohamed Salah.
With the Friedkins ready to back Moyes in the transfer market, adding a new left-back has to be high on the agenda.