Vitaliy Mykolenko will miss the rest of the season in huge injury blow to Everton

Everton have confirmed that left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko will miss the remainder of the season after sustaining an injury in the Merseyside derby victory over Liverpool last week.

The Ukrainian defender was named in the starting line up for the crucial contest but only lasted the first half and was replaced by Ashley Young for the second period.

After further assessment, Everton have confirmed that Mykolenko suffered an ankle ligament injury. While the issue doesn’t require surgery, the 24-year-old will be forced to sit out the remaining three games.

“Vitalii Mykolenko suffered an ankle ligament injury during the 2-0 Merseyside derby win against Liverpool last Wednesday,” a statement from Everton read (via Evertonfc.com).

“The Blues left-back, who came off at half-time during the clash at Goodison Park, has been assessed by a specialist, who revealed the Ukraine international will not require surgery.

“However, Mykolenko will not be available for Everton for the remainder of the season.”

Mykolenko has been a mainstay in Everton’s defence but has already missed seven games due to injury thus far, and his latest setback will ensure that the tally hits double figures.

Nevertheless, the Ukrainian remains a crucial component of Sean Dyche’s resilient rearguard and has managed an impressive nine clean sheets this season.

He averages 1.3 interceptions, 2.5 tackles, 5.1 ball recoveries, and 2.9 clearances per match. He has also won an impressive 53% of his aerial battles, bettered by his 58% success rate in ground duels.

In addition to being a reliable rearguard cover, Mykolenko has also displayed attacking tendencies, scoring two goals and creating two big chances in 28 Premier League games.

He has been crucial to Everton’s survival in the Premier League this season, and his latest injury undeniably comes as a huge blow to Dyche’s plans.

Having achieved their primary target despite numerous off-field circumstances that have impacted their campaign, the Toffees have shifted their focus towards potentially climbing up the table.

Mykolenko’s absence opens the door for either Ben Godfrey or Ashley Young to slot in at left-back as they prepare for Friday’s trip to relegation-threatened Luton Town.

Stats from Sofascore.com