Everton left-back Vitalii Mykolenko has withdrawn from Ukraine’s international squad, his country’s FA have confirmed.
The 26-year-old is now returning to Merseyside to be assessed by Everton’s medical staff after an MRI scan revealed an injury.
Frustratingly, Myko’s injury occurred just days after the transfer window closed, with only free agents now available to be signed.
The Ukrainian was forced off against AS Roma, subsequently missing the trip to Leeds and the home win over Brighton.
However, he returned against Mansfield in the League Cup, and played 90 minutes in Saturday’s 3-2 victory at Molyneux. Unfortunately though it seems the defender may have been rushed back.
The Ukrainian FA stated: “After undergoing an MRI, the Everton player was diagnosed with an injury received in matches for the club. Because of this, Mykolenko will not be able to play in the September 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against France and Azerbaijan. Serhiy Rebrov’s coaching staff has called up Vladyslav Dubinchak for these matches.”
INJURIES LIMIT EVERTON’S DEFENSIVE OPTIONS
The Blues signed left-back Adam Aznou from Bayern Munich during the summer, though he has also been sidelined.
After making his debut for the club against AS Roma, the 19-year-old suffered an ankle injury, ruling him out.
He did however make a competitive return last night, featuring for Everton’s U21’s, as he steps up his rehabilitation.
Myko’s injury compounds Everton’s limited defensive options, with Branthwaite also unavailable in the opening weeks of the season.
Hopefully his departure from international duty is merely precautionary, with the Blues set to welcome Aston Villa to BMD on Saturday 13th September.
James Garner operated as a makeshift left-back on the opening day against Leeds United. However Moyes will not want to lose such a key man in the middle.
Garner has been excellent in the middle of the park, with standout performances against Brighton and Wolves.
